Ceramic Change and the Maya Collapse

This study examines patterns of pottery production and consumption at the Maya city centre of Lamanai during the Terminal Classic to Early Postclassic period (A.D.800-A.D.1250). The central focus is on pottery that was deposited in the central precinct as part of ritual and ceremonial activities and events. Through an analytical framework that involves the detailed examination of stylistic and technological variation within the ceramic assemblage, as well as ceramic depositional patterns and the wider cultural and environmental setting within which pottery was manufactured, used and deposited, this study investigates the kinds of factors that contributed to ceramic change during this period of cultural transition.