Olmec. <em>Winged Figure</em>, 800-500 B.C.E. Jadeite, 1 3/4 x 1 1/2 in. (4.4 x 3.8 cm). Private Collection, L65.7.2. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, L65.7.2_transpc003.jpg)

Winged Figure

Artist:Olmec

Medium: Jadeite

Geograhical Locations:

Dates:800-500 B.C.E.

Dimensions: 1 3/4 x 1 1/2 in. (4.4 x 3.8 cm)

Collections:

Exhibitions:

Accession Number: L65.7.2

Image: L65.7.2_transpc003.jpg,

Catalogue Description:
Jade carving of the upper torso and head of a small winged figure with the typical Olmec elongated, flattened head, drooping lips, and drilled ear lobes. The wings have been identified as those of a bat, a nocturnal animal associated with the darkness of the underworld. The wings also have scalloped edges and fine incised lines that recall the wings of a butterfly, a potent symbol of transformation. Four small drill holes along the edges of the wings may have been used to sew the figure to clothing or to a headress. The fact that this figurine was found in Costa Rica suggests that Olmec-style carvings were highly valued there, and indicate that extensive trading networks existed throughout Mesoamerica.

Brooklyn Museum