"Published to accompany a traveling exhibition organized by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, this book breaks new ground by documenting the development and exploring the manifestations of royal authority among the ancient Maya as well as their descendants, as revealed by the religious beliefs and ceremonies of the Maya today. Drawing on the most current archaeological, epigraphic, and art historical research of an impressive roster of Maya scholars, Lords of Creation addresses specific aspects of the central historical issues and seminal artworks that exemplify the primary characteristic of Maya divine kingship, the capacity of rulers to intercede between gods and men."--Jacket.