Decorating the body

Body ornament and clothing indicated a person’s place in the world.

• Jade jewellery showed religious power
• Elaborate clothes were worn by rulers
• Tattoos and body painting showed group membership
• Warriors’ armour told of special social roles

People could use textiles, paints and simple forms of jewellery to convey messages through body decoration.

This figure wears a ritual war costume, including body armour, trousers and high-heeled sandals. He has elaborate ear ornaments, the remains of a large feathered back ornament, and eagle headdress. His large teeth and fangs may mean that he is Chac - the Maya Rain god.

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• The next page in this section is : Dr. Thomas Gann
• Ancient Mesoamerica

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