An Interconnected World? Evidence of Interaction in the Arts of Epiclassic Cacaxtla and Xochicalco, Mexico

Archaeological evidence from the Epiclassic period (AD 650-900) reveals complex interactions between the independent polities of Cacaxtla and Xochicalco, located in Central Mexico. These centers developed distinctive art styles that incorporated elements from distant regions, particularly Maya influences from the tropical lowlands. While previous studies focused on murals at Cacaxtla and sculptures at Xochicalco, this research expands the scope to include elite sumptuary goods, ritual items, and utilitarian trade goods like ceramics and obsidian. These artifacts suggest diverse strategies for identity formation, with references to Teotihuacan, Maya, Oaxaca, and Veracruz monuments indicating nuanced agendas in monumental artworks.

Nagao, Debra. (2014). An Interconnected World? Evidence of Interaction in the Arts of Epiclassic Cacaxtla and Xochicalco, Mexico. Columbia University. https://doi.org/10.7916/D8C53JFR