Ball player figure

Dateca. AD 250–550

MediumCeramic

Dimensions11 5/8 x 4 x 2 1/2 inches (29.5 x 10.2 x 6.4 cm)

CultureHuastec (Mexico)

ClassificationsCeramics

Credit LineGift of Intermercado Limitada

Terms

México
Ceramics
Huastec
Ceramic
Athletes
Earrings
Necklaces
Loincloths

Object number70.043

Label CopyThis figurine of a Huastec ballplayer wears the characteristic athletic gear worn by players of the Mesoamerican ball game, a thick yoke around his waist, a kneepad on the left knee, and a loincloth, the typical garment worn by men in this society. His hair is arranged in an elaborate coiffure or headdress, and he also wears star-shaped earrings or ear plugs, and a necklace. All known ballplayer figures are male, like this one, and it appears that this sport was only played by men.

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