| Object Name: | Image of a jaguar |
|
|---|---|---|
| Creation Date: | 600-900 AD | |
| Culture: | Olmeca-Xicalanca | |
| Site: | Xochicalco, Morelos | |
| Material: | ||
| Repository: | Site Museum, Xochicalco | |
| Image source: | © Dr. Manuel Aguilar | |
| Several sculptures associated with the death of rulers depict rulers at the moment of death and deification falling into the underworld. Jaguars seem to have been both lords of the underworld and protectors of rulers during their reigns. The jaguar is the largest New World cat and was held in high esteem, specially for its pelt, which was symbolic of elite and ceremonial status. | ||
