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A New Artistic Rendering of Izapa Stela 5: A Step toward Improved Interpretation

TitleA New Artistic Rendering of Izapa Stela 5: A Step toward Improved Interpretation
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication1999
AuthorsClark, John E.
JournalJournal of Book of Mormon Studies
Volume8
Issue1
Pagination22-33, 77
KeywordsDream; Izapa; Izapa Stela 5; Lehi (Prophet); Mesoamerica; Nephite; Stela 5; Tree of Life; Vision
Abstract

Aided by creative techniques, Ajáx Moreno carefully prepared more accurate, detailed renderings of the Izapa monuments, including Stela 5, with its complex scenes of gods and other supernatural creatures, royalty, animals invested with mythic and value symbolism, and mortals. The author raises relevant questions about reconciling Jakeman’s view with the new drawing: Are there Old World connections? Can Izapa be viewed as a Book of Mormon city? Did the Nephites know of Lehi’s dream? Are there name glyphs on the stela? The scene, if it does not depict Lehi’s dream, fits clearly in Mesoamerican art in theme, style, technical execution, and meaning. The basic theme of Stela 5 may be the king as intercessor with the gods on behalf of his people.

URLhttps://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jbms/vol8/iss1/6