PXL_20250424_224303121

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 07:49:22 +0100

MASK-CHEST OF MONTE ALBÁN

One of the most important offerings in Monte Albán, was
deposited near the base of the worship to the east of the
building "H", here, a burial of five
individuals, among whom was the holder of a
magnificent jade chest. The character who had
below the right hand, a mother of pearl bead,
she wore thin flower-shaped earrings, a necklace of 81
jade beads and in the center of it, without being held by
the aforementioned necklace was the disintegrated breastplate that
formed a spectacular integrated mask of 25 pieces
of jade worked in two different planes for the purpose of
shape two faces, one with human features
and the other of jaguar (Panthera on). This strategy of
couple assumes it was about representing a character
turning into a jaguar, or feline
humanizing, both possibilities were considered
viable within religion. In the case of humans,
only priests could have this transformation and
high-ranking rulers who could by their rank e
importance to have as nagual to so important feline. He
the composition of the mask stands out fine lines
scratches on the forehead, ears, upper lip and on the
plate representing the jaw, in this the strokes
they form a design that resembles pointed teeth. Con
shell eyes, incisors and fangs were worked;
three slate boards finish as pendants. This object
archaeological is considered one of the masterpieces
of the Zapotec art of pre-Courtesian Mexico.

Provenance: Central Square Adoration
Chronology: Protoclassic. Monte Alban II, 100 BC - 100 AD