Space and Sculpture in the Classic Maya City

Examines how images, texts and architectural form controlled movement of people through the various precincts in Classic Maya cities.

Alexander Parmington (Author)

9781107002340, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 31 March 2011

288 pages, 115 b/w illus. 1 map 67 tables
28.6 x 22.5 x 1.9 cm, 1.06 kg

In this book, Alexander Parmington examines how images, texts and architectural form controlled and channelled movement of particular sets of people through various precincts in Classic Maya cities. Using Palenque as a case study, this book analyses specific building groups and corresponding sculptures to provide insight into the hierarchical distribution and use of ritual and administrative space in temple and palace architecture. Identifying which spaces were the most accessible and most public, and which spaces were segregated and highly private, Dr Parmington demonstrates how sculptural, iconographic and hieroglyphic content varies considerably when found in public/common or private/elite space. Drawing on specific examples from the Classic Maya and other early civilisations, he demonstrates that by examining the intent in the distribution of architecture and art, the variation and function of the artistic themes represented in sculpture and other monumental works of art can be better understood.

Introduction
1. Defining the Maya built environment
2. Investigative considerations and methodology
3. Access analysis of the Palenque cross group and its sculpture
4. Architectural and sculptural programs of the Palenque Palace Group
5. Access analysis of the architectural and sculptural programs of the Palenque Palace Group
6. Access analysis of Maya art and architecture, summary and conclusions.

Subject Areas: Prehistoric archaeology [HDDA], History of the Americas [HBJK], History of art: pre-history [ACC]