Representación de un cráneo (1200/1521) by DesconocidoAmparo Museum
What does the skull mean?
This obsidian sculpture reminds us of the importance of the skull in Mesoamerican art. Often carved in stone and painted, they tell us about the different rituals and ceremonies that incorporated images of skulls in this part of the world.
The practice of fashioning skulls is based on the idea of preservation. The skull maybe a representation of an ancestor or a person important to the community, so, far from being macabre, they are an act of veneration.
The skull or head also had huge importance in battle. Taking the head of a defeated enemy or wearing it as a trophy demonstrated that something had been acquired or conquered. The skull, displayed as a memento, also becomes an offering.
How was it made?
We are still unsure about the precise manufacturing techniques involved in creating this obsidian skull. The eye sockets are made of shell and the teeth of bone but further investigation is needed to determine the exact deposit from which the obsidian came.
Obsidian is a volcanic material, a type of glass, that forms when lava cools rapidly. Depending on the place of origin, different chemical compositions allow us to establish the exact geological source.
Group of 3 worked obsidian fragments and a raw obsidian lump (5th millennium or later)The Metropolitan Museum of Art
There are several obsidian deposits in the region from where the skull originates. For example in Nayarit, in the State of Mexico and in the State of Puebla. Some of the great Mesoamerican cities were founded near these deposits.
Hide ScraperNational Park Service, Museum Management Program
What can obsidian be used for?
Obsidian a very important raw material for the ancient Mesoamericans because of its adaptable physical qualities and spiritual status. As a result, it was used to create artifacts and tools used for a huge variety of purposes.
Blade (ca. 4000 B.C.)The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Small points were used for hunting, and larger blades fashioned into cutting tools, some used for blood-letting rituals. Obsidian was seen by some Central American cultures as being the blood of the earth.
Mosaic mask of Tezcatlipoca (1400/1521)British Museum
The image of the skull has many meanings highlighting the physical and spiritual qualities of the human head.
Mask of Xiutecuhtli, god of fire (1325/1521) by UnknownThe Israel Museum, Jerusalem
Want to learn more?
If you would like to know more about the historical importance and varied use of obsidian, you can find more information here.
