Exploring Pre-Columbian Owl Iconography: Harbingers of Bad Omens, Death, and Successful Hunts

Samuel Hensley*, Blaire Phillips*, and Megan Leight

Art History Department, School of Art and Design, College of Creative Arts, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506

Presentation Category: Visual & Performing Arts (Performing Arts Presentation #140)

Student’s Major: Art History

Owls are often linked with darkness due to their crepuscular (twilight) or nocturnal predatory hunting practices and nearly silent flight patterns. This makes owls mysterious and ominous creatures, and their mythological roles among ancient Mesoamerican cultures is complex. They are viewed as negative auguries since they are special messengers to the gods of the Underworld. The owl is commonly represented alongside merchants and God L as companions to travelers and in scenes associated with darkness or nighttime. They are seen as portents of ill-fated omens and impending death, particularly when their vocalized cry is heard or an owl is near a home. The one positive aspect of owls is from hunters, who view noises from owls as an important indicator of a successful hunt. This paper explores the complexity of visual representations of owls across Mesoamerica, focusing on the iconography and mythology of owl imagery. The paper will consider representations and myths associated with owls from other regions of the Americas, particularly among the Moche of South America. The goal of this study is to better understand the strange and compelling depictions of owl figures in Pre-Columbian art.

Funding:

Program/mechanism supporting research/creative efforts: Other, Mesoamerican Art History Course