This triangular jade ceremonial axe displays its smoothly polished surface that reveals the beautiful fusion of colors of the precious jade. Its solid body is tapered evenly to a voluminous...
This triangular jade ceremonial axe displays its smoothly polished surface that reveals the beautiful fusion of colors of the precious jade. Its solid body is tapered evenly to a voluminous point from a flat base, which has a sharp edge. Although the ceremonial piece is simple in it’s form, it possesses a strong sense of physicality that captures one's absolute attention. It is an embodiment of rich ritualistic symbolism, power and wishes of people who have participated in the ceremony. Devoid of any figural representation, the ceremonial axe indicates Meso-Americans' strong belief in not only ritual practices but also the magical quality of the material itself--jade. In Ancient Meso-America, jade had great talismanic power as well as other uses such as healing different illness. It was even used to revive the dying. The jade ceremonial axe reflects its timeless beauty and power and such qualities will unquestionably remain throughout the continual changes of the world.