Teotihuacan
Mexico
Standing figure, c. 200–600
Deep green jadeite
7 5/8 inches
The Saint Louis Art Museum, Gift of Morton D. May, 264:1978

Most Teotihuacan figural sculpture is block-like and angular, with the features carved in low relief. They are most commonly found sculpted from jade, a precious material to this culture. The figure is wearing a banded headdress and earspools, typical of Teotihuacan adornment. Horizontal grooves near the waist indicate a belt or loincloth. The sculpture has a sawed separation between its legs and deep grooves to delineate the arms, which are held firmly at the sides. The backs of the knees are notched to make them seem slightly bent, implying arrested movement and readiness for action.