Earliest evidence of primate captivity and translocation supports gift diplomacy between Teotihuacan and the Maya

A groundbreaking multimethod archaeometry study reveals the earliest evidence of primate captivity and translocation in Mesoamerica, dating to 250-300 CE. The analysis of a spider monkey sacrificed at Teotihuacan's ceremonial center provides insights into interregional diplomacy between Teotihuacan and the Maya during Early Classic Mesoamerica (1-550 CE). This discovery suggests that a period of fluid ritual exchange with Maya dignitaries preceded Teotihuacan's militaristic involvement, challenging previous narratives. The study combines zooarchaeological, isotopic, ancient DNA, paleobotanical, and radiocarbon dating techniques to reconstruct the monkey's life history, including its age at capture (before 3 years), duration in captivity (over 2 years), anthropogenic diet (maize, arrowroot, chili pepper), and context of sacrifice. The presence of Maya vessels and murals further supports the diplomatic gift exchange interpretation.

Sugiyama, N., Sugiyama, S., Cagnato, C., France, C. A. M., Iriki, A., Hughes, K. S., Singleton, R. R., Thornton, E., & Hofman, C. A. (2022). Earliest evidence of primate captivity and translocation supports gift diplomacy between Teotihuacan and the Maya. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 119(47). https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2212431119