Thumb Rest of a Spear Thrower

600–1000
Overall: 7.1 x 2.1 cm (2 13/16 x 13/16 in.)
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Location: 232 Andean

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Did You Know?

Spear throwers, also called atlatls, use leverage to propel a spear faster and farther.

Description

This object was lashed to a spear thrower, where it served as a thumb rest or grip. The imagery is suited to the use: a supernatural being throttles a human, turning its head to expose its throat to a knife the being holds in one hand. Thus, the scene captures the crucial moment of an offering likely intended to assure the benevolence of divine forces.
Thumb Rest of a Spear Thrower

Thumb Rest of a Spear Thrower

600–1000

Andes, Wari people

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