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Carved hacha
Veracruz
Classic period
A.D. 500–800
Object Place: Veracruz, México, Gulf Coast region
Medium/Technique
Black diorite with feldspar inclusions and traces of red hematite or cinnabar pigment
Dimensions
Overall: 17.8 × 13.3 × 5.1 cm (7 × 5 1/4 × 2 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. John Dolliver MacDonald
Accession Number1972.1085
CollectionsAmericas
ClassificationsRitual objects
DescriptionThe fine carving of this small hacha suggests it is a ceremonial item, perhaps a trophy or insignia of accomplishment and status. It portrays an elderly man with a lizard- or fish-like emblem arching over his head.
ProvenanceBy 1971, Mr. and Mrs. John Dolliver MacDonald, Cambridge, MA; 1972, year-end gift of Mr. and Mrs. John D. MacDonald to the MFA. (Accession Date: January 10, 1973)