Ball Game Model
Culture
Nayarit
Date200 BCE–500 CE
Mediumceramic
Dimensions16.5 x 36.8 x 27 cm (6 1/2 x 14 1/2 x 10 5/8 in.)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineGift of Mr. and Mrs. Aldus Chapin Higgins
Terms
Object number1947.25
Label TextThis model gives us a vivid representation of the ball game practiced in ancient West Mexico. In many ways, this scene seems contemporary to us, similar to a football game or soccer match.The rubber ball is absent from this representation, while two players seem to be wrestling at the center. Did the ball break away from the model, or was it purposefully left out of the scene, suggesting it was kicked outside the court?
The level of interest of the supporters varies: in the front right corner, two men are engaged in a side conversation, while someone behind them stands up to see what is happening outside of the court. In the back right corner, at least one woman is present—identifiable by her lack of headdress, naked breast, and long skirt.On View
Not on viewCollections
