Veracruz
Head for Ballgame (Hacha)
Veracruz, 600-900
Physical Qualities
Stone, 8 × 4 1/8 × 6 15/16 in. (20.3 × 10.5 × 17.7 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of J. Paul and Patricia Neeld Phillips, Rockville, Maryland
Object Number
1985.289
Complementing the ball player's ceremonial regalia, the hacha, a heavy narrow blade, was attached to the yoke. Hachas are commonly carved to form profile views of birds and reptiles associated with the underworld such as the serpent, macaw, and monkey. Human heads are also featured.
