Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Vera Cruz/Veracruz, ca. 700 to 900 CE. A large carved stone hacha fragment depicting a stylized face in profile - the indented eye outlined with low relief curving shapes that might symbolize snakes. Hachas were associated with the ritual Mesoamerican ballgame, though they were not actually part of the player's equipment. Instead these were probably worn during ritualistic ceremonies related to the game or the larger ones, such as this, may have served as ballcourt markers since this one is also carved to be viewed from both sides. The name stems from the fact that they were believed to be axe-heads; hence the term hacha (Spanish for axe). Size: 7" L x 2" W x 10.5" H (17.8 cm x 5.1 cm x 26.7 cm); 15.5" H (39.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Pasadena, California, USA collection; ex-private estate collection, Los Angeles, California, USA, formed between 1970 and 2000

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#180944

Losses to the lower edges near eye as shown. Chips and abrasions and softening to carved details. Light mineral deposits.