Maya Archaeology – Late Pre-Classic Period Transition Notes
- Theories for the emergence of stratification were found by Friedal in excavation of Cerros archaeological site.
- Evidence traces a remarkable change from a small egalitarian fishing community to a large-scale stratified City.
- Friedal engages the theory that this rapid shift in social organization was spearheaded by their iconography.
- Iconography found on buildings included depictions of the sun-face rising from the earth figure. Others show a face symbolizing the morning star (Venus).
- During this early iconography, humans were not directly depicted. Future iconography showing staircases put humans within this cultural context.
- Shamans were revered in this society, significant as leaders and rulers.
