Week 7: The Americas

 

The architecture and furniture design of civilizations in the Americas initially lacked certain elements. Without knowledge of or access to European architectural books, much of the early architecture in the Americas lacked the same level of precision and attention to detail found in European designs. Mesoamericans prioritized the exterior appearance of buildings and sculptures, but unfortunately, they often used impermanent materials, meaning much of their work has not survived. During this time, there was great geographical diversity, from lowlands to mountains, as well as religious diversity, with practices differing from Christian worship. Major civilizations like the Olmecs, Aztecs, Mayas, and Incas emerged, each with distinct traditions. However, their architectural styles shared common features, with large stone structures, varied elevations, and open spaces, such as the iconic Castillo and ball courts.

El Castillo

El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulkan, is the pyramid dedicated to the feathered serpent god, Kukulkan. It stands about 30 meters (98 feet) tall and is famous for its connection to the solar calendar, particularly the phenomenon where shadows resemble a serpent descending the steps during the equinoxes. It has four staircases that lead up to a small temple at the top.

Current Application: Eiffel Tower

At first, it may not seem like the Eiffel Tower and El Castillo share much in common. The Eiffel Tower is a triangular-shaped structure, whereas El Castillo is a pyramid. However, both buildings have staircases leading to their tops, much like the steps of El Castillo. More importantly, both serve as iconic landmarks that represent not only the architectural achievements of their time but also the deeper cultural, scientific, and spiritual ideals of the civilizations that built them

The Jaguar Throne 

Located inside El Castillo, the Jaguar throne was not intended for comfort but for ceremonial use. It consists of a mid-height seat, lacking both backrest and armrests. During this era, many pieces of furniture incorporated animal motifs and elements into their designs. The identity of this throne was primarily that of a jaguar, with the seat being secondary. This symbolic design reflects the importance of the jaguar in Mesoamerican culture, where it often represented power, strength, and spiritual significance.

Current Application: Panther Chair

Created by Zaha Hadid, an Iraqi British architect, the Panther Chair doesn't merely depict the animal in a decorative sense, but its form, like the ancient Jaguar throne, is designed with the animal's characteristics in mind, while also functioning as a luxurious seating piece.

Ballcourt

Ball courts were a well-known feature in many Mesoamerican cities. These courts typically had an I-shaped layout, with two sloping walls flanking a central playing alley. The design allowed spectators to sit on the raised sides and overlook the game. While the sloped structures resemble the form of a pyramid, they extend horizontally rather than vertically, creating a monumental but elongated appearance. This horizontal emphasis, along with the court's central location in ceremonial spaces, highlights its importance for both sporting and ritualistic purposes in Mesoamerican culture.

Modern Application: United Center

The United Center home to The Chicago Bulls is a great example of the modern take on Ballcourts. Nowadays when you think of a "ball court" you think of a basketball court so I would say any basketball arena could be well represented as a modern take. But like the Mesoamerican ball court, the arena hosts large competitive basketball games with cultural and community importance

One Step Further:

Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui

Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui was often associated with constructing the Machu Picchu and is thought to have been constructed under his order and designs. He brought the expansion of the Inca empire, helped design the reconstruction of Cuzzo, and designed the Qhapaq Ñan, an extensive network of roads that connected the far-flung regions of the empire.