Archaeologies of Cosmoscapes in the Americas

This book explores how pre-Columbian societies in the Americas modeled their cosmos through the creation of objects and places, emphasizing the interconnected and animated nature of their visions. It highlights how cosmoscapes are manifested archaeologically in architecture, portable artifacts, and transformed natural landscapes. The creation of cosmoscapes reconciled peoples' experiences of the world with their understandings of it.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 27 July 2022
Publisher: Oxbow Books

This comprehensive volume delves into the captivating world of pre-Columbian societies in the Americas, exploring their profound and intricate visions of the cosmos. Through the meticulous creation of specific objects and spaces, these societies painstakingly modeled and shaped their understanding of the universe. It emphasizes that these societies sought to materialize overarching models and templates that would define the shape and scope of the cosmos, ultimately shaping the very concept of cosmoscape. Recognizing a tendency to overlook the interconnected and animated nature of ancestral Americans' cosmological beliefs, the authors delve into the archaeological manifestations of cosmoscapes. They examine how these cosmoscapes are revealed through objects and physically altered landscapes, offering a rich tapestry of insights.

The volume includes captivating case studies that showcase cosmoscapes in various forms, including architectural marvels, portable artifacts, and transformative aspects of the natural world. These case studies highlight the profound ways in which cosmoscapes served as a means of reconciling peoples' diverse experiences of the world with their evolving understandings of it. By examining the creation of cosmoscapes, this volume sheds light on the intricate interplay between culture, spirituality, and the natural environment, providing a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human civilization.

In conclusion, this volume offers a captivating exploration of pre-Columbian societies' cosmological beliefs and their artistic expressions. It highlights the profound ways in which these societies sought to understand and shape their world, and provides valuable insights into the complex and multifaceted nature of human civilization. Through its rich case studies and thoughtful analysis, this volume serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of the Americas.

Dimension: 246 x 185 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789258448