set 2 Flashcards
Colossal heads
Colossal heads: Large stone sculptures found in Mesoamerican archaeological sites, most notably in the Olmec civilization. They are typically around three meters tall and depict human heads with distinct facial features
Copan
Copan: An ancient Mayan city located in western Honduras. It was an important cultural and political center during the Classic period and features several impressive architectural and artistic achievements.
Corbelled arch
Corbelled arch: A construction technique used in Mesoamerican architecture where overlapping stone or brick layers are gradually brought closer together until they meet at the top, creating an arch-like structure.
Cotzumalhuapa
Cotzumalhuapa: An archaeological site in Guatemala that was an important center of the Cotzumalhuapa civilization. It features several impressive sculptures and architectural features, including the famous “Stela 1.”
Cyclical time
Cyclical time: A concept in Mesoamerican cosmology where time is seen as a series of repeating cycles, rather than a linear progression. This idea was reflected in the Mesoamerican calendar systems
Danzantes:
Danzantes: A term used to refer to a series of Mesoamerican sculptures depicting naked, contorted human figures. They are believed to have been associated with ritual dances or sacrificial ceremonies.
Diego de Landa
Diego de Landa: A Spanish bishop who played a significant role in the early colonial period of the Yucatan peninsula. He is notorious for his destruction of Mayan codices and other cultural artifacts.
Eccentric flint
Eccentric flint: A type of Mesoamerican artifact made from a distinctive green or blue stone. They were often used in ritual contexts and feature unusual shapes and designs
El Manatí:
El Manatí: An archaeological site in Veracruz, Mexico, that was an important center of the Olmec civilization. It is known for its offerings of human figurines and other artifacts made from a wide range of materials
El Tajín
El Tajín: An ancient city in the state of Veracruz, Mexico, that was an important center of Mesoamerican civilization. It features several impressive architectural and artistic achievements, including the famous “Pyramid of the Niches
Ethnography:
Ethnography: The study of cultural and social practices of specific human groups. In the context of Mesoamerica, ethnography has been used to better understand the beliefs and practices of indigenous peoples in the region
Goggle-eyed deity
Goggle-eyed deity: A common feature in Mesoamerican art and iconography, where deities and other figures are depicted with large, prominent eyes. This feature is often interpreted as a symbol of heightened awareness or divine insight
Greenstone
Greenstone: A type of mineral often used in Mesoamerican art and artifacts. It was highly valued for its beauty and durability and was often used to create intricate carvings and sculptures
