The NCMA’s ancient American collection presents artifacts from 1150 bce to 1550 ce. From six different modern countries, these objects cover a broad range of materials and functions. They represent diverse cultures in Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Costa Rica, and Peru.
The Museum started acquiring West Mexican objects in the late 1950s, but only in the 1970s did collecting expand to other regions. Under the patronage of board member James Gordon Hanes Jr., material culture (objects created and used by people) from elsewhere in Latin America and the world became the focus of collecting activities. The primary strengths of this collection are in Maya and Central Andes objects, and the Costa Rican collection is one of the largest in North Carolina.
In these galleries you will see artifacts such as ceramic vessels, jewelry, statues, textiles, and ritual objects from different periods and geographies. The symbolic meaning of these luxury items, made of exotic materials, enhanced one’s status, demonstrating wealth and power. The transformation of raw materials into goods illustrates how objects can be used publicly as emblems of identity in society.
From life in palaces and the making of royal identities to the role of women as agents of creation and transformation, the themes explored bring forth traditions and beliefs that sustained these ancient societies. War, conflict, and sports—as well as music and communication with celestial realms—are also featured. Regardless of national origin, the artifacts in the collection reflect lived experiences common to all humankind, then and now.
Ángel González López
Research Curator, Ancient American Collection
A cochineal is like a beetle! It is a small animal, a plant parasite, and one of the smallest animals featured in our gallery. The colored, fibrous wools and threads in the loom would have been dyed using cochineals.
The jaguar is an important animal in many ancient American cultures and was a motif you can find on many objects from this gallery.
Look at the beautiful colors this parrot has. Parrots are appreciated for their beauty, intelligence, and ability to mimic our own voices.
A peccary is a type of hog or pig that has a keen sense of smell and hearing. They live in social groups and groom each other.
Ribbit Ribbit! Frogs usually live in the rain forests, near rivers and lakes. Animals were used as inspiration for the form of artwork like this small clay vessel.