Pre-Columbian, Mayan Territories, Guatemala, ca. 550 to 950 CE. A finely carved stone hacha depicting a snake head in profile with captivating features delineated on both sides: deeply set round eyes with pecked irises and pupils and ample eyelids, a snout with delineated nostrils, an open mouth with a long protruding tongue, below that a cross-hatched section representing snakeskin, and scales delineated upon the crest of the head. A perforation pierces the visage at the back end. Snake/serpents provide a fascinating element of Pre-Columbian iconography as they were regarded to be a beneficial source of nourishment and at the same time quite deadly with their poisonous venom. Also important to the indigenous was the fact that snakes shed their skin annually thus rejuvenating themselves and serving as symbols of renewal and good health. Custom stand. Size: 8.5" W x 9.625" H (21.6 cm x 24.4 cm); 12.125" H (30.8 cm) on included custom stand.

The two sides of this hacha may represent the existence of two snake heads which suggests the bicephalic serpent - a signifier of high rank in various Pre-Columbian world views. These two-headed beasts were regarded as sky bands that arched over the earth or surrounded the seas serving as a passageway for the planets and stars of the celestial realm. This motif decorated articles associated with individuals of high rank, thus associating them with the powers of this mighty creature.

Hachas were believed to be axe-heads, hence the name (the Spanish word for 'axe'). Most hachas, like this example, represent human heads, although the skulls and heads of animals, such as jaguars, birds, bats, deer and monkeys, are also depicted. Based on ceramic figurines and stone carvings, some authors have proposed that they were used attached to yugos (yokes). Others suggest that some of the hachas could have served as ball court markers. Their actual use is not yet clear, but they are often associated with yugos in burials.

Provenance: private D. C. collection, California, USA; D. C. is an Emmy Award winning Hollywood writer and Executive Producer, collected before 2000

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#126425

Old losses to crest of head. Minor chips to peripheries. Normal surface wear commensurate with age. Nice red cinnabar and mineral deposits grace the surface.