Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
A Maya religious belief that rulers maintained spiritual links to their ancestors and the divine realm, depicted in monumental art to reinforce royal legitimacy and sacred authority.
AP course connection
Topic 5.3: 5.3 Purpose and Audience in Indigenous American Art