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6d ago

Study Maps Aztec Obsidian Trade and Ritual Practices Using Largest Artifact Analysis to Date

New research reveals how Tenochtitlan sourced volcanic glass from across Mesoamerica, highlighting trade networks, state control, and shifting patterns of use over time.

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Unprecedented Survey of Aztec Obsidian Reveals Coast-to-Coast Trade Network
Obsidian Blades At The Main Aztec Temple Came From Enemy Territory
Obsidian artifacts from Tenochtitlan. Image credit: Mirsa Islas / PTM-INAH.

Overview

  • Scientists analyzed 788 obsidian artifacts from Templo Mayor, the Aztec Empire's central temple, using portable X-ray fluorescence (pXRF) for non-destructive geochemical fingerprinting.
  • Nearly 90% of the artifacts were made from green obsidian sourced from Sierra de Pachuca, prized for its symbolic ties to the mythical city of Tollan and reserved for ritual use.
  • Obsidian from at least seven other sources, including rival territories like Ucareo in Purépecha land, was used for everyday tools and reached Tenochtitlan through market networks rather than state control.
  • The study tracks changes from 1375 CE to 1520 CE, showing a shift from diverse sourcing in early phases to centralized control of ritual obsidian after the Aztec Triple Alliance of 1430 CE.
  • This research, conducted by Tulane University and Proyecto Templo Mayor, underscores the complexity of Aztec trade, religion, and imperial expansion through advanced archaeological science.