Dancing Into Dreams: Maya Vase Painting of the Ik’ Kingdom

Description

“Dancing into Dreams” explores 8th-century Maya vase painting of the Ik’ kingdom| located in the tropical lowlands of present day Guatemala. Ik’ vases are acclaimed for their naturalistic color| veristic portraiture| and calligraphic line. Their painted surfaces depict historical subject matter and often include the names of the artists and patrons| as well as hieroglyphic explanations of the portrayed events and vessel production. Collectively| such self-consciously historical works offer a precision and nuance| unparalleled in the ancient Americas| to the study of the role of art in elite society.

Authoritative and accessible| this handsomely illustrated volume presents a history of Ik’ vase painting and describes the dramatic scenes represented on the vases with compelling and historically accurate vignettes.