This warrior remains ever vigilant with wide,
open eyes replete with intimidating war paint.
He brandishes a broad spear in his right hand
and a curved axe in his left. His forehead has
been elongated in typical Jalisco style, reflective
of the ancient tradition head shaping.
Aristocratic parents would tie two boards to the
front and back of their child’s head in order to
distinguish them from the regular population.
As well, it is believed that they aspired to
resemble the maize god who features a high,
flattened forehead. Despite his enlarged head,
our attention is still focused on his charming, yet
determined expression. He wears a crested
helmet that is similar to other Jalisco work, as are
the scarified bumps on his shoulders.
Discovered buried inside a tomb, this sculpture
of a poised warrior would have protected the
deceased from any evil spirits or tomb robbers
that might attempt to infiltrate the grave
throughout eternity. Today, he has returned
from his resting place to inspire us with his
artistic beauty and cultural history. He has
survived the demise of the civilization that
created him, all the while continuing to stand
guard, ensuring us a safety and well-being both
in this world and beyond.
- (PF.6372)
|
