The human being was a recurring theme in Mezcala style figures. These representations were divided into two main categories: those that represented the human being as a whole, with a complete body, and those that focused exclusively on the face. Although they followed a similar schematic, the facial representations allowed for a greater variety of shapes and designs, especially in the headdresses. This creative freedom was reflected in the diversity of styles and ornaments found on the headdresses of the figures, which could vary in size, shape and ornamentation, giving each figure a unique and characteristic identity.
This piece represents a fascinating pendant in the shape of a human face, adorned with an impressive headdress composed of bird heads. The material used for its elaboration is green stone, possibly serpentine or jadeite, which gives it an outstanding beauty and aesthetic quality.
The head is slightly trapezoidal in shape, with the lower section narrower and the upper area wider. Each side of the head has a similar shape, but of smaller size, representing the ears. This carefully sculpted detail adds realism and depth to the human face, providing a sense of symmetry and balance to the composition.
The face shows the same simplicity that is characteristic of the mezcala pieces. The eye socket is represented by horizontal wear, while the nose and mouth section is outlined by a triangle created from two worn lines extending from the eyes to the chin. An incised line within this triangle separates the mouth from the nose, and a horizontal line shapes the lips. These precise and minimalist strokes define the facial features efficiently.
The highlight of the piece is the impressive headdress composed of two bird heads. Above the human head, there is a cylinder divided into two parts, with a deep wear that creates the shapes of the birds' heads. Each bird's head has a worn circle, and at the ends a thick beak protrudes that is the same width as the head, with a slight curvature towards the end. In the center of the birds' heads, there is a perforation indicating that this piece was used as a pendant.
The prominent presence of the headdress in the piece is a reminder of the importance of this element in Mesoamerica. Headdresses were visual symbols that expresses the status, social position and hierarchy of a person within the community. They were also closely related to religious practices and rituals, as each deity had a characteristic headdress that identified them.
Headdresses were also a form of cultural and artistic expression in Mesoamerica, as they reflected the ethnic identity, local traditions and specific cultural symbols of each community. Some headdresses also had a protective function and were believed to confer special powers to those who wore them.
All in all, the piece in question not only represents a jewel of ancient goldsmithing, but also provides a fascinating window into the beliefs and symbolism of the Mezcala culture. Through this headdress, we can appreciate how the human and animal worlds were intertwined in a unique artistic expression.
The human being was a recurring theme in Mezcala style figures. These representations were divided into two main categories: those that represented the human being as a whole, with a complete body, and those that focused exclusively on the face. Although they followed a similar schematic, the facial representations allowed for a greater variety of shapes and designs, especially in the headdresses. This creative freedom was reflected in the diversity of styles and ornaments found on the headdresses of the figures, which could vary in size, shape and ornamentation, giving each figure a unique and characteristic identity.
