Cacaxtla Figural Ceramics

Abstract

This paper examines the figural ceramics of Cacaxtla,

Tlaxcala, Mexico, particularly the group

of architectural decorations known as the “Once

Se.ores de Cacaxtla,” found in 1998, and a pair of

figural urns discovered during excavations of the

acropolis. These objects offer valuable counterpoints

to the evidence offered by the murals of the

site. In particular, we argue that unlike the murals,

the Once Se.ores demonstrate a deep stylistic and

iconographic engagement with the art of Teotihuacan,

suggesting considerable time depth for the site

of Cacaxtla and a long-standing tradition of using

art to negotiate challenging political circumstances.