Description
This handmade bark painting depicts the Tablet of the Temple of the Sun. A Mayan priest is seen holding symbols of power. The sloping forehead is considered a mark of beauty and the priest is backed by a column of glyphs. From between 600 and 750 A.D.
Papel Amate, or Bark Paper, is a form of traditional Mexican paper with pre-Hispanic origins. Traditional bark paper was considered a specialty of the village shaman and was used for special rituals. The Nahua and Otomi tribes eventually began using bark paper as a canvas for traditional paintings. Typically the Otomi of Puebla painstakingly craft the paper out of fig tree or mulberry tree bark and then sell it to the Nahua of Guerrero for painting. These bark paintings, papel amate, are an art form unique to the indigenous tribes of Mexico, and are sure to add more depth and culture to your home decor.
