DIGITAL IMAGING AND ARCHAEOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF THE CASCAJAL BLOCK: ESTABLISHING CONTEXT AND AUTHENTICITY FOR THE EARLIEST KNOWN OLMEC TEXT

摘要: Although the Cascajal Block (CB), an incised greenstone slab from southeastern Veracruz, Mexico, arguably contains earliest written text in New World, debate remains regarding object's authenticity, dating, and cultural affiliation. To address these issues, this article details recent analyses of CB via polynomial texture mapping (PTM), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), scanning electron microscopy (SEM). PTM revealed new that have resulted a epigraphic drawing block's allowed for improved identification several constituent signs. Spectrometric analysis confirmed chemical composition matrix is consistent with serpentine identified uniform patina on its surface, which provided additional contextual data. SEM micrographs polymer replica molds taken evidence manufacturing traces correspond to lapidary techniques observed other Formative-period Olmec objects secure provenience. Results assist clarifying archaeological contexts object confirm terms symbols, material, manufacture conforms objects, supporting