Cleveland Museum of Art

Ballgame Thin Stone Head (Hacha)

Date

600–900

Medium

stone, pigment traces

Culture

South or southeast Mesoamerica, Classic Veracruz style (600-1100)

Department

Art of the Americas

Institution

Cleveland Museum of Art

In contrast to other ballgame sculptures on display, it seems unlikely that thin stone heads, known as hachas, are renditions of actual ballgame gear. Their use remains unclear, but the notch at the back of most examples suggests they might have served as architectural ornaments during play or game ceremonies. Also, in a few artistic depictions of game ceremonials, such heads rest upon U-shaped hip protectors, like one nearby.

The authoritative record is held by Cleveland Museum of Art. LinkedCulture surfaces this object and its connections; it does not alter institutional metadata.