Oyola-Coeur, Monica.

This thesis studies a ceramic assemblage recently excavated at Rio Chico (OMJPLP170), a coastal multi-component site situated in Southern Manabi, Ecuador. Stratigraphic excavations provided the data for analysis, which primarily consisted of utilitarian wares that were examined within the archaeological context. Ceramic utilitarian wares were used to reconstruct the cultural sequence at Rio Chico, dating from the Early Formative Period Valdivia Phase to the Integration Period Manteno Phase, and to assess the use of space throughout the occupation. Additionally, ceramic vessel reconstruction provided insights about the types of activities and behavioral patterns of the prehispanic inhabitants of Rio Chico in each cultural phase. A comparative study of Rio Chico (OMJPLP170) and the adjacent site of Salango (OMJPLP140-141) aided in establishing possible cultural correlations between the two sites. As a result, similarities and differences were noted between the prehispanic settlements of both sites throughout their occupation.