Olmec Stone Sculpture of a Phallus - PF.3388, Origin: Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 6" (15.2cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmec, Medium: Stone. The Olmec civilization is the most Ancient Mexican civilization, often considered as the "Mother Civilization" of the New World. The Olmecs were carvers of stone, from the gigantic colossal heads, stelae, altars, jade Celts, figurines, to pendants. Many of Olmec sculptures, such as this stone phallic sculpture, had ritual purposes. As other ancient cultures did, the Olmecs also cherished the concept of fertility and life. Their reverence to life and birth are evidently shown, for example, in their were- jaguar legend and depiction of jaguar babies and infant images. Although the phallic sculpture's overt sexual quality may seem exhibitionistic in our culture, it possessed entirely different significance in Ancient Meso-America. Considering the Meso- American religious context that valued regeneration, this sculpture may symbolize the regeneration of life. Used as a ritualistic offering, it most likely served as a sign of fertility and birth. Perhaps the Olmecs realized the vulnerability of humans in nature, thus learning to value virility, health, and fertility, which assure the continuation of their people. Neither shunned nor tabooed, this artistic expression poignantly declares the importance of regeneration.

Antiquities
Ancient Unknown