Functional analysis of Mimbres ceramics from the NAN ruin (LA15049), Grant County, New Mexico

Abstract

Over 10 years spanning 1978 to 1989, archaeological investigations were conducted at the NAN ruin (LA15049), a large Classic Mimbres pueblo in the central area of the Mimbres River valley, Grant County, New Mexico. These excavations resulted in an extensive collection of ceramic artifacts and other archaeological data relevant to the lifeways of the prehistoric Mimbrenos. This study analyzes whole vessels and a midden sherd sample from the NAN ruin in an attempt to answer the following research questions: (1) Can a household assemblage be modeled based on sherds recovered from midden deposits? (2) How do vessel frequencies and forms differ between the household, midden, and burial assemblages? (3) Can formal attributes, such as vessel shape or paste characteristics, be used to infer functions(s)? (4) Do use-wear patterns differ within the ceramic assemblage? Based on the above research questions, a model of Mimbres ceramic use-life is presented as determined from three archaeological contexts at the site: burials, the midden, and the domestic arena. Possible vessel functions are addressed in relation to five formal ceramic attributes: durability, capacity, transportability, accessibility, and stability. Finally, use-wear evidence is subdivided into three categories-repair wear, additive wear, and subtractive wear -and the implications of observed wear patterns and vessel function are addressed. This thesis demonstrates that Mimbres ceramics were manufactured primarily to fulfill everyday household functions: storage, transport, cooking, and serving. Their use as mortuary offerings represents a secondary, symbolic function.