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MEXICO. VERACRUZ. El TajRelief from the south
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MEXICO. VERACRUZ. El TajRelief from the south
MEXICO. VERACRUZ. El Taj Relief from the south ball court. Depicts the sacrifice of a ball player. Classic period, c 500 - 900. Totonacan art. Sculpture
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Media ID 14184656
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Americans Ball Belief Beliefs Classic Columbian Depicts Figures Hispanic Mejico Mexican Mexicans Mexico Mythological Mythology Myths Player Precolumbian Prehispanic Prespanish Religions Ritual Sacrifice Sculptures Statues Totonacan Veracruz Myth Totonac
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El Tajín Relief from the South: A Glimpse into the Classic Period of Mexico's Rich Pre-Columbian History This sculpture, titled "El Tajín Relief from the South," is a masterpiece of Totonacan art from the Classic period, approximately 500 to 900 AD. Discovered in the ancient city of El Tajín, located in the Mexican state of Veracruz, this relief depicts a significant moment from the region's mythological past. The scene portrayed in the relief is believed to represent the sacrifice of a ball player. The horizontal composition, with its vibrant colors and intricate details, offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the pre-Hispanic Americas. The Totonac people, the indigenous inhabitants of the region, are known for their artistic achievements, particularly in sculpture and ceramics. The ball game depicted in the relief is a central aspect of Mesoamerican culture, with origins dating back to the Olmec civilization. The game, often played on a large, flat court, was considered a sacred ritual and was believed to have both recreational and religious significance. The participants, often nobles or priests, would play with a solid rubber ball, using their hips, shoulders, and forearms to propel it back and forth. The relief's intricate carvings and vivid colors offer a window into the beliefs and mythology of the ancient Totonac civilization. The figures and symbols depicted in the relief are believed to represent various deities and mythological beings, adding to the mystique and allure of this remarkable work of art. El Tajín Relief from the South is a testament to the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Mexico and the Americas, and a reminder of the fascinating pre-Columbian civilizations that once thrived in this region. This masterpiece continues to captivate and inspire scholars, artists, and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into the past and a connection to the ancient world.
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