Question

The Olmec people created art as a way to give power to the spirits and their spirit ruler. Art was considered sacred work that gained power as more time and energy was spent making it. Clay and stone were often Olmec artists' materials of choice. The changes the artists made to the clay and stone were symbolic of the metamorphosis of the spirit into a different being. For example, when clay was formed into ceramics it became meaningful. After the ceramic vessels were baked, the Olmec believed the ceramics had the power and life to enable the tribe's spiritual leaders to change into other spirits.

According to the excerpt, which of these does clay and stone represent in Olmec art?
A.
fire
B.
spirits
C.
ceramics
D.
change

Answer 1

In Olmec art, clay and stone represent B. spirits and D. change.

Step-by-step explanation:

Olmec art, dating from about 1400 BCE to 400 BCE, features colossal heads, sculptures, and jade carvings. Symbolism includes were-jaguars, believed to represent shamanic transformations, and baby-faced figurines, possibly denoting infant sacrifice. Olmec art profoundly influenced subsequent Mesoamerican civilizations, illustrating advanced cultural and artistic achievements.

The clay and stone in Olmec art represent spirits and change. The Olmec people believed that their art had the power to give life to their spiritual leaders and enable them to transform into other spirits. Clay and stone were chosen as materials for their ability to be transformed and take on new meaning, symbolizing the metamorphosis of the spirit into a different being.