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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Mayan Art : Mayan Stone Hacha
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Mayan Stone Hacha - PF.4757
Origin: Veracruz, Mexico
Circa: 500
AD
to 800
AD
Dimensions:
11" (27.9cm) high
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Stone
Location: United States
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| Description |
The Maya ballgame was a very serious event.
When played simply as a game, the king may
have participated. As a cosmic metaphor the ball
represented the trajectory of heavenly bodies,
and the king was the agent who set their course.
However, this spectacle was often more than
metaphor and included captive enemies as
opposing players who forfeited their lives if they
lost. The ball itself was made of hard, solid
rubber. When projected with force it could be a
lethal weapon. Therefore, the players wore
protective gear in the form of a thick 'yoke'
around the waist and possibly the hacha. This
beautiful hacha is both a sculpture and practical
device. The double profile shows a man deep in
concentration, his eyes intensely watching,
waiting for the moment to strike. The sweeping
furrows at the sides of his face give the
impression of tense muscles and exertion of
energy. Given the weight of most hachas, they
may have been used only for ceremonial
purposes. Whether for sport or pageantry the
hacha is one of the most unique and beautiful
works of art from the mysterious Maya.
- (PF.4757)
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