Art of the Americas Vocabulary

Ashlar Masonry

A stone construction technique using finely cut and dressed stones laid in regular courses with minimal joints for a smooth finish.

Bandolier Bag

A bag worn over the shoulder, often used to hold ammunition or supplies

Chacmool

A stone figure in Mesoamerican cultures, typically depicted reclining with a bowl or disc on its stomach, often associated with rituals.

Corbel Arch

An arch formed by stacking stones or bricks in a series of horizontal layers, each projecting slightly inward.

Coyolxauhqui

A goddess of the moon in Aztec mythology, symbolizing war, associated with the lunar cycle.

Huitzilopochtli

The Aztec god of war and the sun, central to their religion and associated with warfare, sacrifices, and the rising sun.

Kiva

A ceremonial structure used by Pueblo peoples for religious rites and community gatherings.

Pueblo

A type of communal dwelling used by Native American peoples, especially in the Southwestern United States, characterized by multi-storied structures of adobe or stone.

Relief Sculpture

A sculptural technique where figures are carved into a flat surface, creating a three-dimensional effect.

Repousse

A metalworking technique where metal is shaped by hammering from the reverse side, creating a raised design.

Roof Comb

An architectural feature atop a Mesoamerican temple, resembling a comb, often decorative.