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In "Fire and Salt," anthropologist Hector Neff delivers a meticulously researched and compelling exploration of how human activities have shaped the littoral landscapes of Pacific coastal southern Mesoamerica over the past five millennia. As a professor at California State University, Long Beach, and coeditor of Ceramics of the Indigenous Cultures of South America, Neff brings a wealth of expertise to this significant volume, which seamlessly integrates archaeological evidence with contemporary environmental concerns.

"Fire and Salt" delves into the intricate relationship between humans and their coastal environment, utilizing a diverse array of methodologies including airborne lidar, surface reconnaissance, excavation within mangrove-estuary zones, and sediment coring. This multidisciplinary approach allows Neff and his collaborators to construct a comprehensive chronological framework that spans nine ceramic complexes from the Early Formative to Historic periods. By doing so, the book not only traces the physical transformations of the landscape but also illuminates the socio-economic and technological advancements that have driven these changes.

One of the standout features of "Fire and Salt" is its dual focus on historical insights and present-day environmental challenges. Neff vividly portrays the mangrove forests as both historical records of human activity and vital ecological buffers against storms and tsunamis. These forests also serve as nurseries for commercially important marine species and act as significant carbon sinks. However, Neff poignantly highlights the imminent threat of sea-level rise, which jeopardizes these critical ecosystems and the cultural heritage they preserve. By cataloging cultural and natural resources, the book serves as a foundational step toward mitigating the effects of environmental degradation that loom large over the region’s future.

Michael W. Love, co-editor of Archaeology and Identity on the Pacific Coast and Southern Highlands of Mesoamerica, praises Neff’s work for its unique and compelling analysis. Love notes that Neff adeptly synthesizes new data with existing research, particularly emphasizing the role of pyrotechnology in salt production and pottery-making. This focus on the interplay between fire and salt production offers fresh insights into the development of Mesoamerica’s enigmatic Plumbate pottery, showcasing Neff’s ability to connect technological processes with broader environmental and cultural transformations.

The book is thoughtfully organized, beginning with an introduction that sets the stage for the ensuing chapters. Subsequent sections detail extensive fieldwork conducted under the Proyecto Arqueológico Costa del Soconusco, explore the chronology and demography of the region, and examine niche construction practices during the Archaic and Early Formative periods. Neff and his co-authors provide a nuanced analysis of specialized salt production during the Middle through Terminal Formative periods and investigate the complexities of trade and cultural shifts during the Early Classic and Early Postclassic periods. The final chapters address the modern use of the Eastern Soconusco wetlands and offer a compelling conclusion that ties together the historical narrative with contemporary environmental imperatives.

"Fire and Salt" is richly illustrated, featuring detailed maps, diagrams, and photographs that enhance the reader’s understanding of the complex interactions between humans and their coastal environment. The inclusion of comprehensive lists of illustrations and tables further aids in navigating the book’s extensive data and analyses.

In conclusion, "Fire and Salt" is an essential read for scholars and enthusiasts of Mesoamerican archaeology, environmental history, and anthropology. Hector Neff’s insightful synthesis of archaeological data and environmental science not only enriches our understanding of southern Mesoamerica’s past but also underscores the urgent need to preserve its fragile coastal ecosystems. This book is a testament to the enduring impact of human activity on the environment and a call to action to protect the invaluable cultural and natural heritage that remains.

Recommendation: For anyone interested in the intricate dance between human societies and their environments, "Fire and Salt" offers a profound and enlightening perspective. Available now on Amazon, it is a must-have addition to both academic libraries and personal collections.


Artdaily participates in the Amazon Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn commissions by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help us continue curating and sharing the art world’s latest news, stories, and resources with our readers.