Olmec Art and Invention
This sculpture is an artistic portrayal of an Olmec lord.
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Olmec invention and art was heavily influenced by the significance of trade. Olmec science adapted to feed the population and to bring wealth to the region. The geographic diversity of the region allowed the Olmec to learn to cultivate several types of crops. Soon the Olmec even learned how to domesticate animals. Hence agriculture bolstered trade, allowing the Olmec to focus on other things such as invention.
Perhaps one of the most prominent species of art in Olmec society are the stone heads. These heads were made to honor rulers with a near divine status. Many other works were commonplace including jade carvings and bowls and vessels. Sometimes, stone figurines were made, as well. A lot of Olmec art depicted humans, namely royalty.
The Olmec mastered metallurgy and jade carving. They used this aptitude to create jewelry and religious objects, such as the ones mentioned above. However, medical sciences weren't too evolved- blood letting and human sacrifice were extremely common.
The earliest form of mesoamerican writing was discovered by archaeologists and is deemed to have come from the Olmec around 650 BCE. Glyphs were found around the regions of La Venta or modern day Tabasco, Mexico. Furthermore, these gluphs were applied to create a 260 day religious calendar.
It is now evident how important art and science was during Olmec times, proving the level of advanced thought that circulated through the streets of Olmec lands. This makes them perhaps one of the greatest early American civilizations.
Perhaps one of the most prominent species of art in Olmec society are the stone heads. These heads were made to honor rulers with a near divine status. Many other works were commonplace including jade carvings and bowls and vessels. Sometimes, stone figurines were made, as well. A lot of Olmec art depicted humans, namely royalty.
The Olmec mastered metallurgy and jade carving. They used this aptitude to create jewelry and religious objects, such as the ones mentioned above. However, medical sciences weren't too evolved- blood letting and human sacrifice were extremely common.
The earliest form of mesoamerican writing was discovered by archaeologists and is deemed to have come from the Olmec around 650 BCE. Glyphs were found around the regions of La Venta or modern day Tabasco, Mexico. Furthermore, these gluphs were applied to create a 260 day religious calendar.
It is now evident how important art and science was during Olmec times, proving the level of advanced thought that circulated through the streets of Olmec lands. This makes them perhaps one of the greatest early American civilizations.