Precolumbian Art of North America and Mexico edited by Francesco Abbate

Precolumbian Art of North America and Mexico is a beautifully illustrated survey of the artistic achievements of the indigenous cultures of North America and Mexico before European contact. Edited by renowned Italian art historian Francesco Abbate and translated into English by Elizabeth Evans, this substantial volume forms part of an ambitious international series exploring the artistic heritage of world civilizations.

Covering Eskimo art, North American Indigenous art, and the rich artistic traditions of ancient Mexico, Precolumbian Art presents a fascinating visual and historical record of cultures whose creativity found expression through sculpture, masks, ceremonial objects, textiles, architecture, pottery, jewellery, and religious artefacts. The volume is enhanced by 98 full-colour illustrations, allowing readers to appreciate the craftsmanship, symbolism, and aesthetic sophistication of these remarkable works.

The Mexican section explores some of the most significant artistic traditions of Mesoamerica, while the North American chapters examine the diverse visual cultures of Indigenous peoples across the continent. Accompanied by informative commentary and a useful bibliography, Precolumbian Art remains an accessible introduction for collectors, students of anthropology, historians, and enthusiasts of ancient art.

Published by Octopus Books in 1972 and printed in Italy, this attractively produced hardcover combines scholarly content with excellent colour reproduction, making Precolumbian Art a desirable reference work for libraries, collectors of art books, and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of the Americas.

Condition – Very Good

1972 hardcover in a very good dust jacket. The jacket remains bright and attractive with light shelf wear. The cream-coloured boards display scattered foxing and spotting, most noticeable on the covers. Internally, the book is complete and securely bound, with a previous owner’s inscription in ink and foxing present throughout. Despite the age-related spotting, the text and colour illustrations remain clear and fully usable. A solid reference copy of this increasingly uncommon art history title.