A Section of the Dresden Codex

The Dresden Codex, made of bark paper and fine stucco

A viewer cannot be helped but to be drawn to this piece as it immediately pulls one in with a sense of familiarity. If someone has never seen this piece before, they may find themselves pondering over the question of why as they become enamored with its unique combination of beautiful and distinct lines and use of color as an accent. After looking for awhile it may click, that the feeling of familiarity was stemming from common artwork in today's society: comics and storytelling. From the clear use of registers and implied boxes, this section of the Dresden Codex seems to tell a story through images and animation, which ultimately leads to the desire to learn the story it portrays.

The Codex is not just a story, but an entire book from pre-Columbia Mayan times, dating back to the 13th or 14th century, the oldest known book from the Americas. Believed to have been written by eight different people, the Codex is one of only four Mayan books still in existence.

Made up of 39 leaves, the Dresden Codex contains calendars, astrological phases, ceremonies, and much more, all in images, numbers and hieroglyphics.

Currently in the Saxon State and University Library in Dresden, Germany, the Codex is believed to be a copy from another book produced 300-400 years prior to its creation.

Source: https://www.wdl.org/en/item/11621/