Pre-Columbian, Belize, Altun Ha and Nohmul, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. An excellent example of a Maya dagger, expertly hand-knapped from creamy gray-brown chert to display a lengthy, contracting stem, a convex base, a horizontal shoulder, a straight shoulder edge, and a serrated blade. Daggers like these examples have been found at several archaeological sites throughout southern Mesoamerica and the Caribbean, including the famous Maya site of Cuello in northern Belize and at Tikal. Although they are sometimes called "daggers," they are only found in ritual deposits, and their form suggests a ceremonial purpose rather than a utilitarian tool. Size: 5.9" L x 2.3" W (15 cm x 5.8 cm)

Provenance: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Dr. David Harner collection, Springdale, Arkansas, USA, acquired between the 1950s and 1960s

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#168780

Minor loss to 1 shoulder edge. Expected chips to peripheries, as well as nicks and abrasions throughout, commensurate with age and use. Otherwise, excellent.