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Ancient 440-Pound Mayan Sculpture Unearthed in Western Mexico Goes on Public Display

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A limestone statue representing "Chac Mool" (Red Claw) from 900-1250 AD is on display at the exhibition "Maya - The Language of Beauty" at Berlin's Martin Gropius Bau museum on April 11, 2016. JOHN MACDOUGALL/AFP via Getty Images

Authorities have revealed that a colossal prehistoric stone carving, discovered less than a year ago in western Mexico, is now open for public viewing for the first time.

As per a May 10 press release from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia), researchers stumbled upon a significant sculpture during a construction project at the Pátzcuaro market in August. The sculpture depicts a reclining figure grasping a stone.

Measuring approximately 3 ft. in length, 2 and 1/2 ft. in height, and weighing around 440 lbs., the sculpture is made from augite andesite, a dark, porous volcanic stone, as detailed in the announcement.

Officials facilitated the discovery, disassembly, and delivery of the sculpture to researchers, who meticulously preserved and restored it to its original form and color.

According to the release, experts determined that the Mayans fashioned the stone between 1350 and 1521, during the late postclassic period. Such artifacts are rare in western Mexico, raising questions regarding their presence in the region.

The sculpture bears resemblance to a chacmool, a ceremonial table used in pre-Hispanic times. Archaeologists speculate its use in sacrificial and ceremonial rituals.

The discovery adds to a scant collection of chacmools unearthed in the archaeological record, further deepening the mystery surrounding their origins. Since 1938, only 70 such pieces have been unearthed, with none found in this region of Mexico.

Researchers anticipate that the well-preserved sculpture will offer invaluable insights into the function and historical significance of such artworks.

Presently, the sculpture resides at the Museum of Popular Arts and Industries of Pátzcuaro, where it awaits eager visitors seeking to delve into its rich historical context.

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