Photo Collection of Stephanie Wood and Robert Haskett

Maya

Jadeite stone carving of a ball player’s belt, ca. 600-900 C.E. Sometimes referred to in other examples as a yoke. Location of discovery not given. National Museum, Copenhagen, Denmark.

Remains of ball-playing courts have been found throughout Central America. These courts were connected with the temples, and the game was part of the religious rituals. The players used a solid rubber ball and wore protective covering. Around their hips they wore a belt which was probably made of leather. This stone sculpture may represent such a hip belt.