The large number of paintings in this collection that feature Chichén Itzá suggests that it was a particularly inspiring location for Dodge. His daughter later described the awe-inspiring experience of walking through the site, following a path from the Nunnery to the Temple of Warriors. She noted her father’s excitement at viewing the buildings in person rather than through replicas or other artists’ interpretations.
The entrance of the Temple of Warriors at Chichén Itzá
At Chichén Itzá, the Temple of Warriors mentioned by Dodge’s daughter is surrounded by the Group of 1,000 Columns and was built over the remains of an earlier structure. Dodge’s painting depicts a reclining figure, a chacmool, at the front, flanked by two open-mouthed serpents. The simplistic palette of blues and yellows renders the Temple as it may have appeared at night.
The observatory of Chichén Itzá
Another notable feature at Chichén Itzá is the caracol, or observatory. This uniquely circular structure defies traditional Maya architectural style. It might have served to elevate astronomers and provide a clear view of the night sky. In Dodge’s painting, the caracol rises high above the rest of the site, encircled by white clouds.
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