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Public Domain

Mezcala

Pendant in the form of a hand

Mezcala, 300 BCE-CE 100

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Mezcala

Pendant in the form of a hand

Mezcala, 300 BCE-CE 100

Physical Qualities Greenstone, 5 9/16 in. (14.1 cm.)
Credit Line Gift of Daniel Solomon, M.D., Los Angeles
Object Number 1986.59
Mezcala refers to the style and tradition of stone sculpture produced in Formative Period (1200 B.C. - A.D. 200) Guerrero, Mexico. The Mezcala tradition includes a disparate range of forms that include standing and seated figures, masks and face panels, temple facade models, musical instruments, miniaturized animals, reptiles, and birds. Mezcala stone sculpture is recognizable for its emphasis on volume which was manipulated with minimal carving details. Sculptors carved just enough of the cobble, celt, or pebble to animate and enhance its stoniness. Such minimalism inspired the likes of Diego Rivera, Miguel Covarrubias, and notably Milton Loef who amassed a large collection.

Explore the Collection Further

Mezcala
Miniature temple
500 - 200 BCE
Mezcala
Standing Figure
500 - 200 BCE
Diquís and Chiriquí-Veraguas
Pendant in the form of an eagle or king vulture with outstretched wings
700-1550
Mezcala
Seated Figure
500 - 200 BCE
Diquís and Chiriquí-Veraguas
Pendant in the form of an eagle with outstretched wings
500-1520
Chontal and Mezcala
Head
300 BCE-CE 100