Pre-Columbian, Gulf Coast Mexico, Veracruz (Vera Cruz), ca. 5th to 7th century CE. A fantastic carved-stone hacha in the form of an anthropomorphic and avian head presenting two recessed, annular eyes, a pointed forehead, prominent cheekbones, and a lengthy, slender beak that droops over a wide, open mouth to touch a projecting lower lip and chin. A high crest rises from the top of the head in front of a half-circle embellishment, as two circular indentations adorn its sides. The verso of the visage is concave. The bird beak that dominates the face references the Maya sky world. Birds were revered as sky animals associated with the celestial realm - the sun, the moon, and Venus - where they acted as sacred messengers between humankind and its deities. Enveloped in natural hues of cool grey and pale sage with lovely tan-colored earthen deposits, this animated visage serves as a wonderful example of Veracruz culture! Size: 6.25" W x 8.625" H (15.9 cm x 21.9 cm)

Hachas were associated with the ritual Mesoamerican ball game, though examples like this were not actually part of the player's equipment. Instead these were worn during ritualistic ceremonies related to the game. The name stems from the fact that they were believed to be axe-heads; hence the term hacha (Spanish for axe). Based on ceramic figures and imagery on stone carvings, some authors have proposed that hachas were meant to be attached to yugos (yokes). Others suggest that some of the hachas could have served as ballcourt markers.

Provenance: ex-Barakat Gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, acquired prior to 2000

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#162048

Collection label on verso. Expected nicks/chips commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with lovely earthen deposits throughout.