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Ancient American Galleries (Gallery)

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

Exploring Animals in the Ancient American Collection: The Cochineal

A cochineal is like a beetle! It is a small animal, a plant parasite, and one of the few domesticated insects used as a natural dye. The beautiful color created is considered one of the most intense reds, almost like blood. Listen as we learn more about how artisans and artists created colors from Director of Conservation Perry Hurt.

Exploring Animals in the Ancient American Collection: The Jaguar

The jaguar is an important animal in many ancient American cultures and was a model of power and force, symbolically linked with military skills and intelligence. The word for jaguar, bahlam, appears in the name of more Maya kings than any other animal. Jaguars are considered the most powerful and fearsome predator in the rain forest.

Exploring Animals in the Ancient American Collection: The Parrot

Look at the beautiful colors this parrot has. Parrots are appreciated for their brilliant and multicolored feathers, or plumage. These birds are tropical animals traded between different Mesoamerican regions as tributes and gifts.

Exploring Animals in the Ancient American Collection: The Peccary

A peccary is a type of hog or pig that has a keen sense of smell and hearing. They generally roam the forests of Mesoamerica in small groups. Several Maya nobles included the peccary in their names as their spirit animal, in an attempt to imitate their abilities and intelligence.

Exploring Animals in the Ancient American Collection: The Gopher Frog

Ribbit Ribbit! Frogs usually live in the rain forests, near rivers and lakes. Andean people thought frogs were linked to water because their croak imitates the sound of raindrops falling, and this sound could call forth precious rain. Rainwater was a fundamental resource for agricultural societies.