*Hache cérémonielle « Hacha »

It shows the head of a lord who plays pelota, with a vigorous and determined expression, his gaze accentuated by a circular excrescence sculpted in semi-relief. The headdress in the form of a sagittal crest perhaps evokes the powerful beak of a totem bird. The marked expressiveness of this face indicates that this is a renowned player expressing the confidence and experience of this game which required great flexibility and skill on the part of the player. To this day, the use of these pieces as well as their destination remain mysterious. We know however that they were used during the complex rituals associated with the ball game in Mesoamerica. We have here a beautiful example with a deep and nervous sculpture. Carved and semi-polished basalt, some chips from time on the heel and the top of one ear, no restoration. Good general state of conservation. Veracruz, Southern Mexico, Classical period, 450-900 AD. 22,4 x 18,8 x 7,4 cm Provenance: former Yvon Collet collection, 1968