5121 x 3414 px | 43,4 x 28,9 cm | 17,1 x 11,4 inches | 300dpi
Data acquisizione:
23 aprile 2008
Ubicazione:
Monte Alban, Oaxaca, Mexico
Altre informazioni:
Dancers Monolithic Relief Carvings, Building L, Dancers Building, Gallery of the Dancers. A collection of carved stones with distinct human figures in dynamic poses. They have several characteristics in common; they are male nudes, the majority obese with a wide nose and thick lips. These features suggest Olmec influence. Recent interpretations of the bas reliefs view the figures as leaders from neighbouring towns around Monte Alban who were captured and sacrificed. There is marked symbolism of the castration of the figures and the collection of blood. The sculptures adorned a wall along with symbols and numerals indicating that they depicted a sequential series of historical events in that era. Several centuries later the Zapotecs dismantled the majority of the wall and the bas reliefs were scattered throughout the site and used in future buildings. The in situ stones on the site are copies of the originals which are held in the Monte Alban Museum for conservation purposes.
