SANGRE DE CRISTO MICACEOUS CLAYS

Abstract

Archaeological research has shown that northern Rio Grande potters have used micaceous clays in the production of cooking, serving, and ritual vessels for more than 700 years, yet little is known about the raw material sources used to make these remarkable wares. Recent survey with traditional potters reveals the locations of micaceous clay deposits and the criteria used to select clays for pottery manufacturing. Instmmental neutron activation analysis (INAA) of raw material samples demonstrates that sources are chemically distinct and that archaeological and ethnographic vessels may be matched to them with a high degree of confidence. Source matches for ceramics attributed to Pueblo, Jicarilla Apache, and Hispanic potters illustrates the potential of geochemical testing to reveal previously unrecognized complexity in the ceramic markets and land-use patterns of the northern Rio Grande. A case study from Picurís Pueblo showcases the relevance of ceramic source analysis to modern pottery communities.