A brushes and chisels: The role of scribes and sculptors among the Maya of the Classic period

Abstract

Researchs about everyday life of pre-Hispanic Mayan have focused mainly on agricultural aspects, political stories, commercial exchange and ritual events; but rarely in courtly life. In this paper we focus on the guild of scribes and sculptors, a group that belonged to a high social stratum. The work of these artists was essential for the rulers to preserve their power, also the main source to understand the Classic Mayan. Through the signatures in ceramic or stone pieces, these individuals have left anonymity and, even if it’s a small way, we can know about them.