Since the dawn of history, mankind has sought to bring luck and avert evil through the wearing of amulets. Amulets can carry a thousand different powers, depending on their shape, their color or the material they are made from. In Ancient Mexico, amulets of stone and shell were especially popular. Worn on leather or fibre cords around the neck, they invited the benevolent protection of the gods, stimulated bravery in war, an dbrought good luck and sexual success in times of peace. This unusual pendant depicts an abstract face with the most basic of features; two eyes, a nose, ears and the suggestion of a mouth. Does such an amulet represent a God, whose benevolent protection the wearer sought? The head of a slain enemy, a mark of courage and warrior status? A smiling head, a sign of friendly greeting to the world at large? These things must remain mysterious in the modern world. All we know is that by holding this amulet, are in direct touch with a vanished world and the people who filled it. L. 2.5cm(1IN)