Name:
1. Olmec Symbols
Date:
Directions:
1. Read the descriptions under
each symbol.
2. Write a summary of the symbol
in your own words.
3. Looking at the object posters,
check which symbols can be
found on each object.
4. Write your interpretation of the
object including at least two
details to support your idea.
Celt:
a stone object that
resembles an ear
of corn
Downturned Mouth:
inspired by the mouth
of a jaguar, whose jaw
can open to surround
the head of its prey
Fiery Eyebrows:
associated with the
Harpy Eagle, a large
bird that can fly 50
miles an hour and that
preys on monkeys
Axis Mundi:
this symbol, usually
worn by royalty,
designates that the
person wearing it is the
center of the universe
2. For me this symbol means . . .
3. Object
Kunz Axe:
discovered at Oaxaca
Size: 11 13/16 x 6 in.
4. By combining these symbols, what might the Olmec be showing about this object?
Colossal Head 5:
discovered at San Lorenzo
Size: 73 1/4 x 56 11/16 x
49 1/4 in.
4. By combining these symbols, what might the Olmec be showing about this object?
Monument 52:
discovered at San Lorenzo
Size: 36 3/16 x 18 7/8 x
15 3/16 in.
4. By combining these symbols, what might the Olmec be showing about this object?
Votive Axe:
discovered at La Venta
Size: 4 3/8 x 2 1/2 in.
4. By combining these symbols, what might the Olmec be showing about this object?
Cleft-head:
often shown with
corn or seeds
growing out of the V
shape, this symbol
is connected to the
maize or corn god.
Water Pleats:
resembles the ripples or
flowing of water