OLMEC FIGURE OF A BALLPLAYER, TLATILCO REGION EARLY PRECLASSIC, CIRCA 1200-900 BC

This elaborately costumed figure is designated as one of the Pilli type known from Tlatilco and Tlapacoya. These specially attired ceremonial figures represent high status dignitaries or religious leaders as ballplayers. This figure is heavily laden with protective cord belts wrapped around the waist, knees and ankles, necessary defensive gear against the dense rubber balls that could only be hit with the head, arms, hips and knees. He wears a protective face mask revealing only his eyes, a special feature not commonly depicted on other ballplayer figurines. Around his neck hangs an oval mirror of iron ore or obsidian, one of the ultimate symbols of authority.

The figure represents the importance of the ceremonial ballgame as early as 1200 BC. The ballgame is one of defining elements of Mesoamerican culture; the victorious outcome of a ballplayer reflected humans dominance over the lords of the Underworld, ensuring the return of day after night, the continuation of seasonal cycles and replenished authority.