The civilization of the Mayas was one of the most magnificent in all of Central America. Its history can be divided in three successive periods: the preMayan era (before 320), the Ancient Empire (320-987), and the New Empire (987-1697).
The Mayan empire covered a wide region including the southeast of México, Yucatan and Guatemala. The civilization grew from the hub in the Peten region to the Tikal and Uaxactun agglomerations. The cities of Chichen Itzá, Uxmal, Palenque, Bonampak, and Copan developed.
Mayan Art is considered the richest in the New World because of the great complexity of patterns and variety of media expressions. Limestone structures, faced with lime stucco, were the hallmark of ancient Mayan architecture. Mayan buildings were adorned with carved friezes and roof combs in stone and stucco. Another distinctive feature of the Mayans was the use of colorful murals
With large quantities of limestone and flint available, plaster and cement were easily produced. This allowed the Mayans to build impressive temples, with stepped pyramids. On the summits were thatched- roof temples. The early Mayan architects used extensively the corbel vault principle, where arch-like structures extend inward until they meet at the pinnacle.
Tombs were often encased within or beneath Mayan structures. Frequently new temples were built over existing structures.
Most of the Mayan cities were built by being divided into quarters by two avenues which cross-cut each other at right angles. Roofs were flat and made with cedar beams overlaid with mortar. The walls were plastered and painted with great gods and other mythological features.
The Mayans also expressed themselves artistically. Their ceramics were made in a large variety of forms and decorated with complex scenes.
The Mayans also designed works of art from flint, bone and shell, along with making decorated cotton textiles. Even metal was used for ceremonial purposes. Items made with metal include necklaces, bracelets and headresses.
With the decipherment of the Maya script it was discovered that the Maya were one of the few civilizations where artists attached their name to their work.
Leave a comment