Quetzalcóatl feathered serpent Veracruz Yoke

Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Vera Cruz, ca. 400 to
700 CE. A remarkable stone yoke showcasing tremendous artistry and technique, suggesting it served as a ceremonial representation of the protective Y-shaped guards worn by Mesoamerican ballplayers. Its curved central section features a captivating carved feathered serpent distinguished by large, recessed eyes, a broad nose with curled nostrils These pieces are to heavy for actual gameplay, this impressive ceremonial yoke, with its beautiful carvings and rich iconography, likely symbolized the lighter, more practical wooden or basketry belts used during the ballgame.
Size: 16.1" L x 11.9" W x 3.6" H (40.9 cm x 30.2 cm x 9.1 cm)
U-shaped yokes, worn around the waists of ballplayers, were used to strike the solid, rubber ball. This stone yoke is too heavy to be worn during a game. The actual equipment was made of wood and leather. This yoke's carved image of Quetzalcoatl-suggests that the yoke was a prized possession or a trophy and likely was placed in a tomb as a funerary offering.