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Saturday, July 9 to Sunday, August 14, 2011 The spirit of ancient civilizations in the Americas have existed for over three thousand and some hundred years. Explore over seventy artifacts from their spiritual world. Tunic (detail) Nazca, c. 200–600 A.C., camel hair, silk, feathers
Coming from heaven and earth, transcendental powers mingle, greatly influencing human life. To perfectly harmonize with the expansive life cycle of the universe called birth, death, and rebirth, rituals were performed. These were indispensable in sustaining the universe. Incised Celt Maya, c. 452, Jade
Ancient Civilizations of the Americas Man, Nature, and Spirit in Pre-Columbian Art
Incised Celt Maya, c. 452, Jade
Their astronomy was closely connected to the cycle of agriculture and human life, through which they developed the most advanced and exact calendar of their time. It was one with their religious ceremonies. The continuance of the universe depended on the observance of the right ritual at the right time. Humans were held responsible for the universe and nature.
Mask Olmec, c. 900 B.C.-600 B.C., Jade
Summer Special Exhibition 2011
Lecture Mystical Aspects of the Ancient Maya Calendar Dr. Khristaan D. Villela Visiting professor, University of New Mexico Sunday, July 10, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. in the South Lecture Hall *Free with museum entrance.


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