Bas-relief

Definition

Bas-relief is a sculptural technique in which the figures are raised from a flat background but remain attached to it, creating a shallow depth. This form of relief sculpture was commonly used in Mayan art, particularly in stelae, to depict scenes of mythology, history, and significant events in Mayan society. The use of bas-relief allowed for intricate storytelling and detailed representation of human figures and other elements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Bas-reliefs were frequently carved into stelae, which were vertical stone monuments that served both decorative and commemorative purposes in Mayan culture.
2. These sculptures often depicted important historical events, royal lineages, and religious ceremonies, serving as a visual record of Mayan society.
3. The depth of bas-relief is typically shallow, allowing the figures to stand out without completely detaching from the background, creating a striking visual effect.
4. Mayan bas-reliefs were not just artistic; they also served as important historical documents, preserving the culture's narratives for future generations.
5. Common themes in Mayan bas-relief include gods, ancestors, and significant rulers, which were integral to the Maya’s understanding of their place in the cosmos.

Review Questions

• How does the technique of bas-relief enhance storytelling in Mayan sculpture?
  • The technique of bas-relief enhances storytelling in Mayan sculpture by allowing artists to create dynamic narratives within a single plane. By raising figures slightly from the background while keeping them connected, artists could depict complex scenes that convey mythology or historical events. This shallow depth enables viewers to engage with the artwork as they can easily interpret the relationships between different figures and symbols within the context of Mayan culture.
• Discuss the significance of bas-relief carvings found on stelae in terms of their cultural and historical value to the Maya civilization.
  • Bas-relief carvings on stelae are significant to the Maya civilization as they encapsulate important cultural and historical narratives. These carvings often commemorate rulers' achievements, religious ceremonies, or pivotal events that shaped society. They serve not only as artistic expressions but also as records that provide insights into the social structure, religious beliefs, and historical timelines of the Maya, preserving their legacy for future generations.
• Evaluate how bas-relief sculpture reflects the broader themes of power and spirituality within Mayan society.
  • Bas-relief sculpture reflects broader themes of power and spirituality within Mayan society by visually representing the interconnectedness of their rulers with divine entities. The depictions of rulers in powerful poses alongside gods in bas-reliefs emphasize the divine right to rule and the significance of royal lineage. Additionally, these sculptures often illustrate rituals and ceremonies that highlight the importance of spirituality in governance, suggesting that leadership was seen as both a political and sacred duty within Mayan culture.

Related terms

Stela:

A stone or wooden slab, often erected to commemorate an event or person, commonly used in Mayan culture for inscriptions and relief carvings.

Iconography: The visual imagery and symbols used in art and sculpture to convey specific meanings or messages, often deeply rooted in cultural beliefs.

Maya Art: The artistic expressions of the Maya civilization, encompassing various forms including sculpture, pottery, mural painting, and textiles, often reflecting their complex society and beliefs.