Yoke
Culture
Classic Veracruz
Date600 CE–900 CE
Mediumstone
Dimensions41.9 x 37.8 x 14 cm (16 1/2 x 14 7/8 x 5 1/2 in.)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Terms
Object number1942.50
Descriptioncylindrical indentations arranged systematically on the outer surface; inner surface, incised head in profile at the curve of yoke.Label TextThe yoke likely represents the belt worn by ballplayers to protect their waist from the rubber ball that they would kick with their hips. This heavy version in stone is intricately sculpted, both on the inside and outside. On the inner surface, a profile human head emerges from the jaw of an earth monster, as evidenced by the fangs carved on each side. In stark contrast with the intricate scene on the inside of the yoke, the divots on the exterior may have once been inlaid with semi-precious stone or shell.
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