#AP Art History: Indigenous Americas - The Night Before 🚀

Hey! Let's get you prepped for the AP Art History exam with a super-focused review of Indigenous Americas. We'll hit the key points, make connections, and get you feeling confident. Let’s do this!

#1. Chavín de Huántar ⛰️

This site is a cornerstone of Andean art and religion. Expect questions on its religious significance and unique architectural features.

#Image Courtesy of Smart History

#Form:

• Materials: Stone (architecture), granite (sculptures, Lanzón Stela), hammered gold (jewelry).

#Function:

• Religious capital and pilgrimage site for the Chavín people.
• Lanzón Stela: Symbolic deity, central to rituals.
• Relief sculptures: Primarily decorative, reinforcing religious themes.
• Nose ornament: Worn during ceremonies for spiritual transformation.

#Content:

• Temple: Maze-like tunnels and chambers, Old and New Temple sections.
• Lanzón Stela: Composite human-animal figure (jaguar traits).
• Relief sculptures: Jaguar and snake motifs.
• Nose ornament: Snake heads at both ends.

#Context:

• Chavín civilization: Coastal Peru, 1200-500 BCE.
• Symmetrical artwork, composite figures common.

Practice Question

Multiple Choice:

1. The Lanzón Stela at Chavín de Huántar is best described as: (A) A narrative relief sculpture depicting a battle scene. (B) A freestanding sculpture of a human figure with animalistic features. (C) A decorative element of a royal tomb. (D) A functional tool used in agricultural rituals.

2. Which of the following is a characteristic of the architecture at Chavín de Huántar? (A) Use of post-and-lintel construction. (B) Elaborate use of colorful mosaics. (C) A complex network of interior tunnels and chambers. (D) Construction primarily from adobe bricks.

Free Response Question:

Discuss the religious and cultural significance of Chavín de Huántar, using specific examples from the site's architecture and sculpture. How do these elements reflect the beliefs and practices of the Chavín people?

Scoring Breakdown:

• Identification of Religious Significance (2 points):
  • 1 point for recognizing Chavín de Huántar as a major religious center.
  • 1 point for mentioning its role as a pilgrimage site.
• Analysis of Architectural Features (3 points):
  • 1 point for describing the maze-like tunnels and chambers.
  • 1 point for mentioning the Old and New Temple sections.
  • 1 point for explaining how these features enhanced the religious experience.
• Analysis of Sculptural Elements (3 points):
  • 1 point for discussing the Lanzón Stela and its composite imagery.
  • 1 point for mentioning the jaguar and snake motifs in relief sculptures.
  • 1 point for explaining how these motifs reinforce religious themes.
• Cultural Context (2 points):
  • 1 point for discussing the Chavín civilization's location and time period.
  • 1 point for explaining how the site reflects Chavín beliefs and practices.

#2. Mesa Verde Cliff Dwellings 🏘️

Focus on the unique architecture and its adaptation to the environment. This is a great example of human ingenuity.

#Image Courtesy of Khan Academy

#Form:

• Material: Sandstone.

#Function:

• Housed families, living quarters, ceremonial rooms, farming area.

#Content:

• Multiple housing units.
• Kivas: Underground pits for gatherings and rituals.

#Context:

• Ancient Puebloans (Anasazi), “the ancient ones.”

#3. Yaxchilán 🏛️

Lintels are key here! Pay attention to the narrative and the role of women in Mayan art.

#Image Courtesy of Wikipedia

#Image Courtesy of Khan Academy

#Form:

• Material: Limestone.

#Function:

• Temple complex, main plaza, surrounding buildings.

#Content:

• Structures 33 & 40: Arched interiors, decorative reliefs.
• Lintel 25: Lady Xook’s vision, bloodletting ritual.

#Context:

• Mayans: Yucatán peninsula, 1200-1500 CE.
• Structure 23: Dedicated to Lady Xook.
• Bloodletting: Central to Mayan life, royal rituals.

#4. Great Serpent Mound 🐍

Effigy mounds are unique to North America. Focus on its form and possible functions.

#Image Courtesy of The College Board

#Form:

• Material: Earthwork.

#Function:

• Possible astrological purposes, intent unclear.

#Content:

• Effigy mound: Snake shape.

#Context:

• Mississippian culture, popular mound style.

Practice Question

Multiple Choice:

1. The Great Serpent Mound is best described as: (A) A temple complex used for religious ceremonies. (B) A burial mound containing numerous human remains. (C) An earthwork in the shape of an animal. (D) A defensive structure built to protect a settlement.

2. The primary function of the kivas found at Mesa Verde was: (A) To serve as residential living spaces. (B) To store agricultural products. (C) To be used as ceremonial and gathering spaces. (D) To act as defensive fortifications.

Free Response Question:

Compare and contrast the function and cultural significance of the Great Serpent Mound with one other work of art from the Indigenous Americas. In your response, consider the materials used and the cultural context of each work.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Identification of the Great Serpent Mound (2 points):
  • 1 point for describing it as an effigy mound.
  • 1 point for mentioning its possible astrological functions.
• Selection of a Comparative Work (1 point):
  • 1 point for choosing a relevant work of art from the Indigenous Americas.
• Comparison of Function (3 points):
  • 1 point for comparing the intended purpose of the Great Serpent Mound.
  • 1 point for comparing the function of the chosen comparative work.
  • 1 point for explaining the similarities or differences in their functions.
• Comparison of Cultural Significance (3 points):
  • 1 point for discussing the cultural context of the Great Serpent Mound.
  • 1 point for discussing the cultural context of the chosen comparative work.
  • 1 point for explaining the similarities or differences in their cultural significance.
• Comparison of Materials (1 point):
  • 1 point for comparing the materials used in both works.

#5. Templo Mayor ☀️

Aztec art is rich with symbolism. Know the stories behind the Coyolxauhqui Stone and the Calendar Stone.

#Image Courtesy of World History Encyclopedia

#Form:

• Materials: Stone (temple), volcanic stone (Coyolxauhqui Stone), jadeite (Olmec-style mask), basalt (Calendar Stone).

#Function:

• Temples dedicated to deities.
• Relief sculptures: Narrative, decorative.
• Calendar: Coordinate rituals with the Aztec calendar.

#Content:

• Stepped pyramids: Stacked platforms.
• Coyolxauhqui Stone: Aztec myth of Coyolxauhqui’s death.
• Calendar Stone: Cycle of time, Aztec cosmology.
• Olmec-style mask: Frowning facial features.

#Context:

• Aztecs (Mexica): Mexico, 1375-1520 CE.
• Polytheistic religion.
• Axis mundi: Center of the Aztec universe.
• Temples to Tlaloc (rain) and Huitzilopochtli (war).
• Coyolxauhqui story: Sacrificial practices.
• Olmec mask: Trade, cultural influence.
• Destroyed by the Spanish in 1520.
  Common Mistake

Don't confuse stepped pyramids with the smooth-sided Egyptian pyramids. Focus on the stacked platforms.

#6. Ruler’s Feather Headdress 👑

This piece is all about status and symbolism. Know the materials and their significance.

#Image Courtesy of Daily Art Magazine

#Form:

• Materials: Gold, quetzal and cotinga feathers.

#Function:

• Worn by Motecuhzoma II during ceremonies.

#Content:

• 400 long, green feathers.

#Context:

• 400 feathers symbolize eternity.

#7. City of Cusco 🏙️

Incan masonry is legendary. Focus on the city plan, the Qorikancha, and the walls at Saqsa Waman.

#Image Courtesy of Smart History

#Form:

• Material: Andesite.

#Function:

• Qorikancha: Main temple, observatory.
• City of Cuzco: Capital of the Inca Empire.

#Content:

• City plan: Puma shape.
• Saqsa Waman: Walls at the “head” of the puma.
• Qorikancha: Stone masonry, gold interior (sun worship).

#Context:

• Incans: Masters of masonry.

#8. Maize Cobs 🌽

Metalwork and its connection to agriculture are key. Know the repoussé technique.

#Image Courtesy of Khan Academy

#Form:

• Material: Metal alloys.

#Function:

• Part of a “garden” of corn, good luck charm for harvest.

#Content:

• Life-size replication of corn.
• Repoussé technique: Hammered metal texture.

#Context:

• Maize: Staple crop of the Incans.

#9. City of Machu Picchu ⛰️

Incan architecture at its finest! Focus on ashlar masonry and its adaptation to the landscape.

#Image Courtesy of Khan Academy

#Form:

• Material: Granite.

#Function:

• Ruling class residence.
• Observatory: Chart sun movements (solstices).
• Intihuatana Stone: Aligns with the sun, ceremonies.

#Content:

• Ashlar masonry: Carved stones, grooved together.
• Terraces: Cliffs.

#Context:

• Incan Empire, 1450-1540 CE, central highlands of Peru.

#10. All-T’oqapu Tunic 🧶

Textiles are a key art form. Focus on the t'oqapu and their symbolic meanings.

#Image Courtesy of Smart History

#Form:

• Materials: Camelid fiber and cotton.

#Function:

• Garments for status and accomplishments.

#Content:

• T'oqapu: Squares symbolizing people, events, or places.
• Arm slits.

#Context:

• Acllas: Women who wove textiles.
• Incan abstract designs and motifs.

Practice Question

Multiple Choice:

1. The ashlar masonry technique used at Machu Picchu is characterized by: (A) The use of mud bricks held together with mortar. (B) The use of large, roughly hewn stones stacked without mortar. (C) The use of precisely cut and fitted stones without mortar. (D) The use of concrete reinforced with steel.

2. The t'oqapu on the All-T'oqapu Tunic are best described as: (A) Abstract designs with no symbolic meaning. (B) Geometric patterns representing specific deities. (C) Squares that symbolize people, events, or places. (D) Images of animals and plants from the natural world.

Free Response Question:

Analyze the function and cultural significance of the All-T'oqapu Tunic. How does the tunic reflect the social and political structure of the Inca Empire? Use specific details about the tunic’s form and content in your response.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Identification of Function (2 points):
  • 1 point for stating that the tunic was a garment worn to demonstrate status.
  • 1 point for mentioning its use to reflect accomplishments.
• Analysis of the T'oqapu (3 points):
  • 1 point for describing the t'oqapu as squares decorating the garment.
  • 1 point for explaining that each square symbolizes a person, event, or place.
  • 1 point for discussing how the t'oqapu communicate information about the wearer's status.
• Reflection of Social and Political Structure (3 points):
  • 1 point for relating the tunic to the social hierarchy of the Inca Empire.
  • 1 point for explaining how the tunic's design reflects the power of the Inca rulers.
  • 1 point for discussing the role of Acllas in weaving the textiles.
• Use of Specific Details (2 points):
  • 1 point for using specific details about the tunic's materials (camelid fiber and cotton).
  • 1 point for using specific details about the tunic's form (small slits for arms, abstract designs).

#11. Bandolier Bag 👜

Pay attention to the materials and trade networks. This piece is a great example of cultural exchange.

#Image Courtesy of Khan Academy

#Form:

• Materials: Beadwork on leather.

#Function:

• Status symbol, worn by men and women.

#Content:

• Colorful beaded pouch, floral designs.

#Context:

• Lenape Tribe, Eastern Delaware, US.
• Made by women, worn across the shoulders.
• European trade materials (glass beads, silk ribbons).

#12. Transformation Mask 🎭

Masks are powerful in Indigenous cultures. Focus on the transformation aspect and cultural significance.

#Image Courtesy of Smart History

#Form:

• Materials: Wood, paint, string.

#Function:

• Dance performances and ceremonies.

#Content:

• Bird exterior, human face inside.

#Context:

• Kwakwaka’wakw people, northwest coast of Canada.
• Strings to open and close the mask.
• Human faces: Ancestors, inherited by family.
• Birds: Cultural significance.

#13. Painted Elk Hide 🦌

Narrative art on hides is unique to the Plains. Focus on the events depicted and their cultural importance.

#Image Courtesy of Khan Academy

#Form:

• Material: Painted elk hide.

#Function:

• Warrior accomplishments, display of battles.
• Wall decoration.

#Content:

• Animals being hunted.
• Sun Dance ritual.

#Context:

• Plains communities, Wyoming.

#14. Black-on-Black Ceramic Vessel 🏺

Ceramics are important in many cultures. Focus on the technique and the abstract designs.

#Image Courtesy of Khan Academy

#Form:

• Material: Blackware ceramic.

#Function:

• Decorative vessel.

#Content:

• Shiny and matte finishes.
• Symmetrical abstract elements.

#Context:

• Coils of organic material, high-temperature firing, polished surface.

Practice Question

Multiple Choice:

1. The primary function of the Transformation Mask from the Kwakwaka’wakw people was: (A) To be used as a burial mask for the deceased. (B) To be worn during daily activities as a form of protection. (C) To be used in dance performances and ceremonies. (D) To be displayed as a symbol of wealth and status.

2. The black-on-black ceramic technique used by Maria Martinez involves: (A) The use of a glazing technique to create a shiny surface. (B) The application of colored slips to create a decorative design. (C) The use of coils of organic material and a high-temperature firing. (D) The carving of intricate designs into the surface of the clay.

Free Response Question:

Compare and contrast the function and cultural significance of the Bandolier Bag and the Painted Elk Hide. How do these works reflect the social and cultural values of their respective societies? Use specific examples of their form and content in your response.

Scoring Breakdown:

• Identification of Function (2 points):
  • 1 point for stating the Bandolier Bag was a status symbol.
  • 1 point for stating the Painted Elk Hide was for displaying accomplishments and decoration.
• Analysis of Cultural Significance (3 points):
  • 1 point for discussing the Bandolier Bag's connection to trade networks and cultural exchange.
  • 1 point for discussing the Painted Elk Hide's role in recording history and rituals.
  • 1 point for explaining how each work reflects the values of its society.
• Comparison of Form (3 points):
  • 1 point for comparing the materials used in each work (beadwork on leather vs. painted elk hide).
  • 1 point for comparing the techniques used to create each work (beading vs. painting).
  • 1 point for discussing how the form of each work influences its function.
• Use of Specific Details (2 points):
  • 1 point for using specific details about the Bandolier Bag's floral designs and European materials.
  • 1 point for using specific details about the Painted Elk Hide's depiction of animals and the Sun Dance.

#Final Exam Focus 🎯

#High-Priority Topics:

• Religious and Ritual Art: Chavín de Huántar, Templo Mayor, Transformation Masks.
• Architecture and Urban Planning: Mesa Verde, Yaxchilán, City of Cusco, Machu Picchu.
• Textiles and Personal Adornment: All-T’oqapu Tunic, Bandolier Bag, Ruler's Feather Headdress.
• Narrative and Symbolic Art: Coyolxauhqui Stone, Calendar Stone, Painted Elk Hide.
• Materials and Techniques: Repoussé, Ashlar Masonry, Blackware Ceramics.

#Common Question Types:

• Multiple Choice: Identifying works, materials, techniques, and basic functions.
• Short Answer: Comparing works, analyzing cultural contexts, and discussing symbolism.
• Free Response: In-depth analysis of function, content, and context, often requiring comparisons between works.

#Last-Minute Tips:

• Review Key Terms: Make sure you know what 'axis mundi', 'repoussé', 'ashlar masonry', and other terms mean.
• Connect the Dots: Think about how different works relate to each other across cultures and time periods.
• Stay Calm: You've got this! Take deep breaths, read questions carefully, and trust your preparation.

Good luck, you're going to do amazing! ✨