Scepter with profile figures

Maya

Not on view


The multiple appendages of ritual flint objects, some flaked into profile faces, led archaeologists to refer to them as "eccentric flints." Far from whimsical, these carefully composed showpieces depict deities who sometimes merge in form and meaning. The tall-nosed profile face at the center of this flint corresponds to the Maize God, yet the flaming torch in the figure’s forehead is a distinctive attribute of K’awiil. Both deities were related to abundance and wealth.

Cetro con figuras de perfil
México o Guatemala
Siglo VII al VIII
Pedernal

Los arqueólogos llaman "pedernales excéntricos" a estos objetos rituales de pedernal con múltiples apéndices que simulan rostros de perfil. Las formas no son casuales y representan dioses que a veces se fusionan tanto en su forma como en sus significados. La figura del centro, de nariz recta y alargada, corresponde al dios del maíz, pero la antorcha encendida en la frente es atributo distintivo de K’awiil. Ambas deidades se relacionaban con la abundancia y la riqueza.

Scepter with profile figures, Flint, Maya

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