Obsidian reflections: symbolic dimensions of obsidian in Mesoamerica
Date
2014
Authors
Levine, Marc N., editor
Carballo, David M., editor
University Press of Colorado, publisher
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Abstract
Departing from the political economy perspective taken by the vast majority of volumes devoted to Mesoamerican obsidian, Obsidian Reflections is an examination of obsidian's sociocultural dimensions--particularly in regard to Mesoamerican world view, religion, and belief systems. Exploring the materiality rather than only the functionality of this volcanic glass, this book considers the interplay between people, obsidian, and meaning and how these relationships shaped patterns of procurement, exchange, and use. An international group of scholars, hailing from Belize, France, Japan, Mexico, and the United States provide a variety of case studies from Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and Honduras. The authors draw on archaeological, iconographic, ethnographic, and ethnohistoric data to examine obsidian as a touchstone for cultural meaning, including references to sacrificial precepts, powerful deities, landscape, warfare, social relations, and fertility. In addition, Obsidian Reflections underscores the necessity of understanding obsidian from within its cultural context--from the perspective of the indigenous people of Mesoamerica. It will be of great interest to Mesomaericanists as well as students and scholars of lithic studies and material culture.--Provided by publisher.
Description
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Rights Access
Access is limited to the Adams State University, Colorado State University, Colorado State University Pueblo, Community College of Denver, Fort Lewis College, Metropolitan State University Denver, Regis University, University of Alaska Fairbanks, University of Colorado Boulder, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, University of Colorado Denver, University of Denver, University of Northern Colorado, University of Wyoming, Utah State University and Western Colorado University communities only.
Subject
Indians of Central America -- Antiquities
Indians of Mexico -- Antiquities
Indians of Central America -- Implements
Indians of Mexico -- Implements
Obsidian implements -- Central America
Obsidian implements -- Mexico