Question

Which image shows a common Olmec art form that most likely represented Olmec rulers?

A large carving of a face that has a wide nose and large lips.
A wood carving of a dog.
A statue of figure with monkey like features.

Answer 1

Answer:1: Kunz Axe

Culture: Olmec

Location: no provenance (acquired in Oaxaca)

Date: Middle Formative

Step-by-step explanation:

This greenstone figure depicts a cross-legged youth holding a limp were-jaguar baby. It's features includes almond-shaped eyes, long face, a slightly upturned mouth, short nose, and stubborn chin; classic characteristics of Olmec art work. Found in the Olmec heartland of Veracruz, considered to be the "Rosetta stone" of Olmec religion, the statue is responsible for portraying the incised representations of the Olmec supernatural on the youth's shoulders and legs. The interpretation of the sculpture relies in the explanation that sculptures of headdressed figured holding inert were-jaguar babies appears often from the smallest of figurines to the huge table-top thrones. Given this, the symbolism itself isn't entirely clear. Some archaeologists focuses on the cave surrounding the figure on Altar 5, believing that these sculptures relates to myths of spiritual journeys or human origins. In a more pragmatic sense, others find that the limp depiction of the were-jaguar baby denotes child sacrifice.