Ornamental Bead
Culture
Ancient Maya
Date200-1600 CE
Mediumgreenstone
Dimensions3 x 7.5 cm (1 3/16 x 2 15/16 in.)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Terms
Object number1959.110
Label TextStephen Salisbury III, founder of the Worcester Art Museum, helped fund the archaeological research of his close friend Edward H. Thompson at Chichén Itzá, in the Yucatán Peninsula. Ancient Maya greenstone—mainly jadeite—beads and carved elements were used to adorn the bodies of the elite, from necklaces and bracelets to garments. Many greenstone beads such as these have been discovered as parts of offerings in cenotes, deep natural underground pools common in the area.On View
On view