Production of metates in central Mexico: Techniques (know-how) and chaine operatoire of a traditional lithic craft in Turícuaro (Michoacán, Mexico)

• Metate production is emblematic in Mesoamerica. • Andesite from volcanic areas is still exploited today for this production. • Each step of production has been documented. • The tools and techniques of metate shaping are described. • Production strategies are compared in different areas of Mesoamerica. In Mesoamerica, metates and molcajetes are traditionally used for daily food preparation. These grinding tools are still made today by specialized craftsmen (metateros), who share their work between the quarries and their home workshops. In the Purépecha village of Turícuaro (Michoacán, Mexico), a systematic documentation of the work processes and techniques used to make these tools was carried out with the help of skilled metateros. By presenting the tools, processes, and know-how required for this activity, this study contributes to archaeological considerations on this millennial activity. The comparison of detailed production processes from different documented areas of Mesoamerica provides insights into the organization of the work, the individual variability, and the cultural characteristics that are reflected in this technical social activity.