The art of Pre-Columbian Mexico stretches across 5000 years and encompasses the traditions of numerous cultures including the Mayas, Incas and Aztecs. Ancient artefacts reflect an animistic society where it was believed that everything in nature was imbued with a soul or spirit. Addressing the Olmec period through to the Aztecs (a span of over 1000 years), this text is an exploration into the civilizations of Mesoamerica through an examination of over 250 art objects - highlights include the Senor de Las Limas, jade masks, a giant Olmec head and a bowl used for preparation of human skin after sacrifice. Specific themes such as daily life, the underworld of the gods, funerary rites, religion and ritual and the role of animals and plants in the cultural life of the region are discussed, so providing an insightful view into some of the most fascinating societies history has ever seen. Published to coincide with a major exhibition at Amsterdam's Nieuwe Kerk (and then the State Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg) this book draws on the expertise of numerous leading academics. The authoritative text is supported by reproductions of artefacts drawn from key ethnographical collections from around the world. Together these elements help create a story of a civilization in whom we can recognize the enduring quests and questions of humankind.