Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Museum of Art

About this Work

The hole in the center of the mace head suggests that it was probably attached to a wooden staff. The form is that of a weapon, and is referred to as such in much of the early literature. However, because of the intricate carving and the excellent condition of the mace head it is much more likely that it was a ceremonial object. Instead of being used as a weapon it likely alluded to the strength and skill of a warrior in battle.

While this example depicts a human head, with bird-like features, other mace heads are carved to depict animals such as monkeys, birds, felines, and bats. Additionally some, such as our example, combine human and animal features.