This collection investigates why the symbol of the cat has been such a potent symbol in the Americas, and how similar images have come to mean very different things in different cultures. The jaguar, the mountain lion and other feline icons have variously stood for military might, rank, status and wealth. The book is illustrated with over 25 black and white photographs and 30 line drawings and should be of use to those studying the sign systems adopted by humanity and the systems of meaning constructed around animal symbols.
Edited by:
Nicholas J. Saunders
Imprint: Routledge
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions:
Height: 234mm,
Width: 156mm,
Spine: 26mm
Weight: 748g
ISBN: 9780415153270
ISBN 10: 0415153271
Pages: 312
Publication Date: 01 January 1998
Audience:
General/trade
,
College/higher education
,
Professional & Vocational
,
ELT Advanced
,
Primary
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Active
1 Introduction: Icons of power 2 Architecture of symbolism: The feline image 3 The lord, the ruler: Jaguar symbolism in the Americas 4 The Felidae in Pre-Columbian Panama: A thematic approach to their imagery and symbolism 5 Feline symbolism and material culture in prehistoric Colombia 6 The jaguar of the backward glance 7 Paragon or peril? The jaguar in Amazonian Indian society 8 Felines, patronyms and history of the Araucanians in the southern Andes 9 Mountain Lions and Pueblo shrines in the American Southwest
Nicholas J. Saunders has held research fellowship and teaching positions in Mexico, the USA, Trinidad, Jamaica and the United Kingdom. He is currently a Visiting Fellow in the archaeology department at Southampton University.
Reviews for Icons of Power: Feline Symbolism in the Americas
"'This symposium, illustrated with numerous impressive pots and icons, furnishes a fascinating prehistory of man's relationship with the haughty beauties.' - The Guardian, February 1998. ""...a fascinating pre-history of man's relationship with the haughty beauties."" - The Guardian"
