Ancient Obsidian Procurement and Production in the Peten Campechano: Uxul and Calakmul During the Early Classic to Terminal Classic Periods

Abstract

Obsidian, or volcanic glass, was a widely exchanged material used by the ancient Maya to make tools and ornaments. Because there are no obsidian sources within the karstic Maya lowlands, inhabitants of that region had to rely on extensive trade networks stretching hundreds of kilometers. In this study, I compare obsidian procurement and production patterns at Uxul and Calakmul, two extensive and urbanized sites in southern Campeche, Mexico. Hieroglyphic texts demonstrate that Uxul was an independent polity during much of the Early Classic but was absorbed by the powerful regional state centered at Calakmul during the Late Classic period. Study of obsidian artifacts from both sites reveal important differences in procurement and production patterns. The Uxul obsidian collection demonstrates important trade connections – direct or indirect – with Teotihuacan during the Early Classic period, ties that are seen only very weakly at Calakmul itself. Thus it appears that at this early period in its history, Uxul was economically independent of the lords of Calakmul. Finally, the obsidian collection from Uxul is consistent with an early decline and virtual abandonment of the site in the eighth century, long before the final abandonment of Calakmul some time after A.D. 900.