The Effects of Behaviour on Ceramic Composition: Implications for the Definition of Production Locations

Using petrographic, weak-acid extraction inductively coupled plasma spectrometry, and experimental analyses, this study illustrates that the Classic period (ad 200–800) potters of prehispanic Ejutla (Oaxaca, Mexico) made a diverse array of ceramic products. Ancient Ejutla potters modified the handling and firing of local clay to make fine and coarse wares as well as reduced and oxidized vessels. Our analyses indicate that these different production strategies had distinct effects on compositional signatures. Yet, by employing a multidimensional analytical tack, we are able to associate an assortment of ceramic varieties with the Ejutla producers and their local clay.