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Description:
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Veracruz Stone Yoke. Veracruz, Mexico, Classic Period, c.450-650 AD, Diorite, 16 1/2 x 14 1/2 inches. This ceremonial stone yoke depicts human skulls, and a stylized frog entwined with outward-curving serpents. The stone yoke, it is speculated, was a ceremonial version of the leather or wood yokes worn by the Veracruz when they played the sacred game of pelota. The ball game was a serious matter in which the loser could pay the price of losing with his life. Harold W. Shaw Collection at the Dayton Art Institute. |
