The complex but fascinating link between art and writing is vividly shown in
Michael Coe’s Art of the Maya Scribe. Recently deciphered, Mayan
hieroglyphs reveal scribes of noble birth, living in palaces, and worshipping
their own gods. Wielding the sacred quill was dangerous work because the skills
and status of scribes made them prime targets for hostage-taking in warfare.
Published by Thames & Hudson/Abrams, £45/$75, ISBN
050023745.
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