The Americas became known as the New World, after European explorers discovered the continents in the late 15th century.
Unlike in the Old World of the European Middle Ages, those in pre-Columbian America were not advanced in skills such as metallurgy, but they did excel in mathematics and astronomy, and had the most highly developed calendar systems in the world.
It is said that the pre-Columbians used their calendars to carefully schedule religious ceremonies, which they believed to be essential to the harmonious existence of the universe and the flow of life through birth, death and rebirth.
This show explores the spiritual world of the Americas by presenting some 100 works. Items on display include masks and statues created by the Olmec, the first major civilization in Mexico (900-600 B.C.); Mayan jade accessories; and Nazca clothing; till Aug. 14.
Miho Museum; (0748) 82-3411; 300 Tashiro Momodani, Shigaraki-cho, Koka, Shiga; 20-min. taxi ride from Shigaraki Station, Shigaraki Railway Shigaraki Line. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. ¥1,000. Closed Mon. miho.jp.
