Early Mesoamerica Art

Axis Mundi

A symbolic vertical axis connecting the underworld, earth, and upper world. Often represented as a tree or mountain, it marks the center of the cosmos.

Olmec

The earliest known major Mesoamerican civilization (c. 1200-400 BCE), known for monumental stone sculpture, jade artifacts, and complex ceremonial centers.

San Lorenzo

One of the earliest Olmec cities, featuring social zoning, monumental architecture, and colossal heads.

La Venta

A major Olmec ceremonial center known for its Great Pyramid, altars, and colossal heads.

Colossal Head

Massive basalt sculptures (up to 10 feet tall) depicting individual Olmec rulers. Each has a unique headdress and facial features. Likely portraits of elite leaders.

Sculpture in-the-round

A freestanding sculpture carved on all sides, meant to be viewed from multiple angles.

Celt

A polished stone or jade axe-shaped object, often ceremonial and engraved with symbolic imagery.

Earflares

Large, decorative ear ornaments made of jade or other precious materials, worn by elites.

Were-jaguar

A supernatural being in Olmec art, combining human and jaguar traits. Symbolizes divine power, transformation, or shamanic identity.

Rammed Earth

A construction technique using compacted earth to build solid walls or platforms. Used in La Venta's pyramid and platforms.

Social Zoning

The spatial organization of cities into elite, ceremonial, and residential areas. Seen in San Lorenzo.

Ritual Complex

A group of structures used for religious ceremonies, often aligned with cosmological principles.

Teotihuacan

A later Mesoamerican city (Classic Period) known for its pyramids and urban planning.

Talud-Tablero

An architectural style with sloping (talud) and vertical (tablero) elements, typical of Teotihuacan.