About the Work

The "palmas", as these mysterious artworks were named by the Spanish during colonial time because they have a shape of a palma, were a regalia during the ballgame, which was most probably a ritual and sacrificial game. The harpy eagle was symbolizing the forces coming from above down to earth to devour the a human sacrificial victim.

Provenance

Provenances:
- Ostasiatische Kunst – Exotische Waffen – Mexikanische Kunst, Auktion 78 am 9 Dezember 1957, Dr. Ernst Hauswedell, lot 291, plate X, Hamburg, Germany
- Zurich private collection, acquired in 1957.

Literature

Published in:
- Ostasiatische Kunst – Exotische Waffen – Mexikanische Kunst, Auktion 78 am 9 Dezember 1957, Dr. Ernst Hauswedell, Nummer 291, Tafel X, Hamburg, Germany

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Serge Schoffel - Art Premier “Palma” Representing a Harpy Eagle, 600-900 A.D.