Funerary Urn of an Ancestor Figure at The British Museum, London

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Royal ancestor reverence was a central focus of Zapotec faith and ceremonial tradition. Noble men and women were laid to rest in tombs surrounding the central plaza of the Zapotec capital, Monte Albán. The tombs were utilized repeatedly over many generations. Offerings of burning incense, fresh blood, foaming chocolate and fermented pulque (a frothy beverage crafted from fermented agave) were presented to invoke named ancestors. Many of the figures are identified by year signs and name glyphs taken from the Zapotec piye, or 260 day ritual calendar, and displayed on pendant chests. The Zapotec civilization was an indigenous pre-Columbian culture that thrived in the Valley of Oaxaca in Mesoamerica. Archaeological evidence reveals that their culture spans at least 2,500 years. The Zapotec left behind archaeological remnants at the ancient city of Monte Albán in the form of structures, ball courts, magnificent tombs and grave goods including intricately crafted gold jewelry. Monte Albán was one of the first major cities in Mesoamerica and the heart of a Zapotec state that dominated much of the territory that today belongs to the Mexican state of Oaxaca. This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks and landmarks from across the globe for public access. Scan the World is an open source, community-driven effort, if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can assist. Scanned: Photogrammetry (Processed using Agisoft PhotoScan)