In addition to being rare and beautiful, jade is the
toughest and most durable of stones. Since
weapons and cutting tools of jade greatly excel
those of other stones, they became symbols of
authority and ceremony. In elaborate burials and
offerings, a high proportion of the surviving
objects are made of jade, seemingly an indication
that the material itself had assumed mystical
qualities. In Middle America, the stones selected
by ancient people were predominantly green,
although they may not have been jadeite or
nephrite. The phallus depicted on this
extraordinary ceremonial spoon is an eternal
symbol from antiquity to the present. It is able
to transcend the differences of time and place
and is Universal. It symbolizes the perpetuation
of life and active power. This is a striking
example of an artist's ability to combine this
significant symbol with a utilitarian function.
Undoubtedly this spoon served a very important
part in ancient rituals. Also notice the four
perforated and string-sawed holes underneath
the spoon. It served as a pendant, as well. We
can assume that a great nobility or shaman wore
this magnificent pendant in the past. Possibly
indicative of warrior-like characteristics or
power, there is an alligator motif at the head of
the phallus. The alligator symbolizes warrior-
like characteristic due to its viciousness and
destructive power. Since it inhabits a realm
intermediate between earth and water, and is
associated with mud and vegetation, it became
to be thought of as an emblem of fertility and
power. The claw which grips the spoon is most
probably a jaguar's claw. The jaguar is the most
feared and revered by all Mesoamerican cultures.
The phallus is also the symbol of the propagation
of cosmic forces. Universal and eternal, this is an
exceptional work of art which exposes mankind's
desire for answers of himself and the Universe.
L. 8 3/4IN
- (PF.3138)
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