Modern and Contemporary Art Serpent Made in central Mexico, Mexico, North and Central America1300-1500? Artist/maker unknown, Mexican, Aztec Green igneous (volcanic) rock Currently not on view 1950-134-294 The Louise and Walter Arensberg Collection, 1950 |
LabelThe term "Aztec" refers to the cultures of central Mexico at the time of the Spanish conquest. This serpent head---with double fangs and a thick tongue in front and a rattlesnake tail in back---was carved from a waterworn boulder. It is part of an important collection of pre-Columbian art assembled by Louise and Walter Arensberg, which they displayed in their home alongside modern works of art. |














