Cast Directly From Original
Exclusive to Echoes In Time
Life size
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Size: 7" tall
Material: stone
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Name: ORIGINAL FLINT BALL PLAYER
Time: c. AD 550 - 950
Location: Central Mexico
The ancient Maya of southern Mexico are considered the finest flint knappers (chipping flint into tools and ornaments) that ever lived. Even the best knappers in the world today agree that the Maya created works of art in flint that are impossible to replicate. This exact copy of a flint that was fashioned into the standing profile shape of a ballplayer was probably used as a ceremonial knife. It is crafted to reveal the typical ballplayer regalia, including a padded yolk and girdle around the waist, similar to padding in modern contact sports. It is possible that the artifact was closely associated with the ceremonial aspects of the ballgame itself, perhaps as a bloodletting tool. The figure, with his face gazing toward the heavens, and stylized arms raised, is probably invoking blessings upon the game. The simple design is extremely functional. The ballgame was the focal point of Maya society and ritual. It is likely that a high-ranking member of that society carried the original ballplayer effigy knife.
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