The artwork titled “Ear Spool” is an exquisite piece of jewelry created by an anonymous Aztec artist. Dating from approximately 1450 to 1521, this piece belongs to the Post-classic period, which spans from around 900 to 1580. Crafted from obsidian, the artwork is housed in the prestigious Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) located in New York City, New York, USA.
The artwork, a beautifully polished ear spool, demonstrates the Aztec’s adept skill in working with obsidian, a naturally occurring volcanic glass known for its hardness and sharpness. The spool features a broad, cylindrical shape with a larger disc-like flange on one side, indicating it was likely designed to be worn through stretched earlobes. Its smooth, reflective surface highlights the material’s dark luster, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship involved in its creation and reflecting the cultural significance of jewelry in Post-classic Mesoamerican societies. This piece stands as a testament to the advanced technological and artistic achievements of the Aztec civilization.
