Veracruz Stone Hacha of a Bird Late Classic, ca. A.D. 550-950

the dramatic parrot or macaw with massive ringed eye, short curved beak and large caruncle, a short feathered lower ruff;  in gray-tan basalt.

Allan Stone, New York

Fine, old scratches and some old chipped spots on rim of eye hood on PR eye. no repairs or breaks.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Stone hachas were a key part of the ritual accoutrements of the Mesoamerican ballgame, along with yokes and palmas. While these stone versions of the protective and ornamental gear could not have been worn during the game, their display and ceremonial use was a valued element of ballgame events. They were worn on the edges of the yokes, using the notched or squared backs for attachment. Gulf Coast hachas such as this lot, were  sculpted in a rounded form while the Maya versions (lot 94) are slender with thin edges-giving them the axe-like appearance and hence their Spanish name hacha. Strong predatory animals and birds are depicted, reinforcing the competitive nature of the players and game.