Maize god sculpture discovered in Tlaxcala under study
A basalt stone sculpture, identified as a probable representation of the maize god, was discovered on private property in San Damián Texoloc, Tlaxcala. The piece dates to the Epiclassic period (600–900 AD) and is associated with the Olmeca-Xicalanca culture. Recovered a few months ago during trench excavation, it is now under study and protection at the Ocotelulco Site Museum's Research Section. The sculpture measures 29 centimeters and weighs about 30 kilograms, depicting a youthful head with an elongated skull, almond-shaped eyes, broad nose, thick lips, and a tiara. Archaeologist José Eduardo Contreras Martínez of the INAH Tlaxcala Center led the recovery and oversees the study.
Key facts
- Basalt stone sculpture discovered on private property in San Damián Texoloc, Tlaxcala
- Initial analysis identifies it as a probable representation of the maize god
- Dates to Epiclassic period, between 600 and 900 AD
- Associated with Olmeca-Xicalanca culture
- Recovered a few months ago when a trench was being opened
- Currently under study and protection in the Research Section of the Ocotelulco Site Museum
- Measures 29 centimeters and weighs about 30 kilograms
- Depicts a youthful figure with elongated skull, almond-shaped eyes, broad nose, thick lips, and tiara
- Archaeologist José Eduardo Contreras Martínez of INAH Tlaxcala Center led recovery and oversees study
Entities
Institutions
- National Institute of Anthropology and History
- INAH Tlaxcala Center
- Ocotelulco Site Museum
Locations
- San Damián Texoloc
- Tlaxcala
- Mexico