| Object Name: | Relief 6 ( squash plant) |
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|---|---|---|
| Creation Date: | 1000 BC - 200 BC | |
| Culture: | Olmec | |
| Site: | Chalcatzingo | |
| Material: | Rock | |
| Repository: | ||
| Image source: | © Dr. Manuel Aguilar | |
| Squash was one of the most important staples of Mesoamerica. There was always beans and squash mixed with corn. These plants enrich the soil with nutrients that are necessary for corn to grow. The relief shows a realistic squash plant that has its vines, leaves, and young fruits. About 61 cms. from this plant there is a small rectangular cavity cut out of the bedrock. It was intended for collecting rain or receiving dedicatory water. The placement of water at the foot of the squash plants implies that imitative magic was the reason the cavity is close to the carving. | ||
