Maya Universe in Stone

Dana Lamb discovered a Maya ruin in Guatemala in 1950, but failed to record its location. The lintels he discovered there, long since looted, are likely of a set with two others that are among the masterworks of Maya sculpture from the Classic period. The authors identify a small area with archaeological sites where the carvings were likely produced and can be assigned to a carver, Mayuy, who sculpted his name on two of them. An in-depth analysis of Laxtunich Lintel 1 examines how Mayuy grafted celestial, seasonal, and divine identities onto a local magnate and his overlord from the kingdom of Yaxchilan, Mexico.

Format: Hardback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 12 October 2021
Publisher: Getty Trust Publications

In 1950, the intrepid explorer Dana Lamb stumbled upon a remarkable Maya ruin nestled within the lush tropical forests of northern Guatemala. However, he failed to document the precise location of the site he christened Laxtunich, thus leaving behind a mystery that serves as the central focus of this captivating book. The lintels he discovered at Laxtunich, long since plundered, are believed to be part of a set of two other masterpieces of Maya sculpture from the Classic period. Through meticulous fieldwork, physical evidence, and meticulous examination of Lamb's expedition notes, the authors have identified a small area containing archaeological sites where these remarkable carvings were likely produced.

What makes this discovery even more remarkable is the vivid color and intricate details of the lintels, which are adorned with dynastic and cosmic information. Remarkably, these lintels can be attributed to the skilled carver Mayuy, who etched his name onto two of them. This unique ability to study Mayuy's artistic development and artistic ambitions over time sets him apart from many other artists of his era in ancient America.

In-depth analysis of Laxtunich Lintel 1 delves into the fascinating process by which Mayuy grafted celestial, seasonal, and divine identities onto a local magnate and his overlord from the kingdom of Yaxchilan, Mexico. This volume provides valuable context for the lintels, paving the way for their rightful repatriation to Guatemala, where they can be appreciated by the broader public.

The discovery of Laxtunich and the subsequent research into the lintels offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Guatemala and shed light on the artistic achievements of the Maya civilization. It is a testament to the enduring power of exploration and the importance of preserving and studying cultural artifacts for future generations.

Weight: 1066g
Dimension: 262 x 223 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781606067444