Cohesion and Diversity in Formative Period Maya Lithic Tools and Techniques

Abstract

This article discusses a Formative period lithic assemblage from the site of San Estevan, in order to highlight the complex regional interaction between Middle Formative period sites in Northern Belize. These relationships have been discussed in the literature through debate over the "Producer-Consumer Model." The San Estevan assemblage reflects activities associated with the local production and consumption of lithic tools, including the testing of raw nodules of chert and chalcedony, tool manufacture, use, resharpening, recycling and discard of exhausted tools. Many of the lithic tools at San Estevan exhibit similar forms and production techniques to tools found in contemporaneous deposits at Colha, Cuello, Cerros, Kichpanha, K'axob and Pulltrouser Swamp. This suggests the existence of fluid, dynamic intercommunity relationships and exchange networks between sites in Northern Belize during the Middle Formative period, in which regional tool types and manufacturing techniques were adapted by local producers to suit the demands of local households.