| A term coined by the 19th century explorer Augustus Le Plongeon, Chac-mool literally means red or great jaguar paw in Yucatec Mayan, but Le Plongeon used the word to describe the three-dimensional, reclining figures found atop the temples at Chichen Itza. Characteristically, the head of a chac-mool is turned 90 degrees from the front of the body, and the figure supports himself on his elbows. Chac-mools may have symbolized fallen warriors who deliver offerings to the gods or representations of the sacrifice of the Maize God. |
