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Transformers of the Ancient World
Have you ever imagined what it would be like to change into your favorite animal? In ancient Mexico, between 1200 and 400 B.C. a civilization called the Olmec believed their rulers could transform into jaguars and other powerful creatures. Look closely at the figure pictured here. Beginning with the head, describe what you see. Is it a human or an animal?
This figure is part man and part jaguar. It was made by an Olmec artist around 1000–600 B.C. Jaguars were greatly respected by the Olmecs because they symbolized the power and authority of their rulers and because they often live in caves, spiritually powerful places where the Olmecs believed their ancestors came from.
As part of royal ceremonies, the ruler would take the form of a jaguar in order to communicate with the ancestors and receive guidance from them. This sculpture could have been made to record the transformation of a particular ruler.
If it were possible, what type of animal would you become? What does that animal mean to you? How it might help you?
You can see this figure in the Art of the Ancient Americas galleries on the fourth floor of the Art of the Americas Building.
Search Collections Online to see more Olmec objects.
Mexico, Olmec
Figure Undergoing Transformation, 900-300 B.C.
Sculpture, serpentine with traces of cinnabar, height: 4 1/4 in. (10.8 cm)
Gift of Constance McCormick Fearing M.86.311.6
Photo © 2008 Museum Associates/LACMA
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Artwork of the Month is intended for children but can also be a fun resource for students, teachers, and families who want to learn more about artworks in LACMA's permanent collection and special exhibitions.
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