Sacrificer
Unknown Artist
400–1000
Medium
carved bone
Dimensions
h. 5.1 cm
Classification
Sculpture
Department
Art of the Americas
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
John L. Severance Fund
Accession Number
1996.293
About this artwork
Holding an axe in one hand, a human head in the other, this figurine depicts a ritual sacrificer. His fierce mask probably portrays either a puma or a fox. Incised patterns on the figure's body and headdress indicate elaborate tapestry garments. The ancient rituals embodied by this small carving must have been both visually spectacular and emotionally powerful.