FINAL- question 3

Question 1

The Ballgame

Answer 1

symbolism: represents cosmic dualities, life, death, and rebirth. Reflects Maya worldview of cyclical time and cosmic order
significance: associated with elite culture, often depicted in murals and carvings. May have been used to solidify political alliances or assert dominance
other: symbolizes journey of the Hero Twins. Linked to the Underworld and resurrection mythology

Question 2

Gandhara

Answer 2

nature: reflect Hellenistic and Indian artistic influences. Stupas and sculptures emphasize storytelling through iconography
representation: relics embody spiritual merit and legitimacy for Buddhist monks and rulers. Sculpture and relief work illustrate narratives from Buddha’s life and Jataka tales
culture: blend of Greek, Persian, and Indian traditions in design and motifs. Gandharan art serves as a vehicle for spreading Buddhism across regions

Question 3

Decolonizing Art History

Answer 3

James Elkins: critiques the Eurocentrism inherent in traditional art historical narratives. Advocates for pluralistic approaches that include non-Western perspectives. Challenges dominance of Western methodologies
Neda Shabout: focuses on reclaiming Middle Eastern art history from Orientalist frameworks. Argues for localized interpretations of art that respect indigenous knowledge systems. Examines how colonial narratives have obscured the authenticity of Middle Eastern art

Question 4

Great Zimbabwe

Answer 4

role: seen as an archaeological site, shrine, and symbol of African heritage. Represents continuity between past, present, and future in Shone cosmology.
marginalization: western archaeologists historically denied its African origins. Artifacts were extracted and misrepresented in Western-centric narratives.
decolonizing: incorporates Shone concepts of time and change. Calls for integrating local ontologies with archaeological methods.
significance: symbol of resilience, serving as a shrine and a center of early state formation. Challenges colonial archaeological frameworks and emphasizes local heritage

Question 5

Gothic/Italian “Gothic”

Answer 5

redefinition: challenges the rigid categorization of Gothic as a strictly Northern European phenomenon. Emphasizes regional variations, particularly in Italy, where Gothic elements are synthesized with classical traditions.
characteristics: focuses on proportion, symmetry, and light rather than verticality and ornamentation. Examples include Florence’s Duomo and Siena Cathedral.
context: reflects Italy’s unique integration of Renaissance humanism with Gothic styles. Demonstrates a localized adaptation of broader architectural movements.