Mexico a Journey to the Land of the Gods: Art Treasures of Ancient Mexico - Hardcover

Solis, Felipe; Leyenaar, Ted; Van Zantwijk, Rudolf; De LA Fuente, Beatriz

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0853318581 ISBN 13: 9780853318583

Publisher: Lund Humphries Pub Ltd, 2002

Synopsis

The art of Pre-Columbian Mexico stretches across 5000 years and encompasses the traditions of numerous cultures including the Mayas, Incas and Aztecs. Ancient artefacts reflect an animistic society where it was believed that everything in nature was imbued with a soul or spirit. Addressing the Olmec period through to the Aztecs (a span of over 1000 years), this text is an exploration into the civilizations of Mesoamerica through an examination of over 250 art objects - highlights include the Senor de Las Limas, jade masks, a giant Olmec head and a bowl used for preparation of human skin after sacrifice. Specific themes such as daily life, the underworld of the gods, funerary rites, religion and ritual and the role of animals and plants in the cultural life of the region are discussed, so providing an insightful view into some of the most fascinating societies history has ever seen. Published to coincide with a major exhibition at Amsterdam's Nieuwe Kerk (and then the State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg) this book draws on the expertise of numerous leading academics. The authoritative text is supported by reproductions of artefacts drawn from key ethnographical collections from around the world. Together these elements help create a story of a civilization in whom we can recognize the enduring quests and questions of humankind.

About this title

Reviews

This book is published to coincide with a major exhibition just wrapping up at Amsterdam's Nieuwe Kerk that will travel to the State Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia. The exhibit is part of an effort to introduce people in Europe to New World treasures. This volume differs from other Pre-Columbian art books in the objects covered and the insightful text. Over 250 magnificent art objects from key ethnographic collections in Mexico are explored. Art techniques and styles are discussed, as are artistic inspiration and organization of the artistic community. The authors, all experts in the field, offer many fascinating insights into the personal lives and thoughts of the artists and the society. As the title implies, a journey to ancient Mexico is a journey to the world of the gods; the world was a theater for the gods, and people shared in the drama of the universe. The book includes 250 color illustrations, a map showing the sites, and a wonderful catalog of the exhibit arranged by subject. Recommended for large public, academic, and special libraries. Sylvia Andrews, Indiana State Lib., Indianapolis
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Lund Humphries Pub Ltd
• Publication date: 2002
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0853318581
• ISBN 13: 9780853318583
• Binding: Hardcover
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 304
• Editor: Vrieze John