This sensational, life-sized hand carved from translucent jade glows as if lit from within. Drilled with holes to hang as a pendant, it might have been included in the burial for an esteemed member of Olmec society, the “mother culture” of ancient Mesoamerica. Jade itself symbolized agricultural fertility, being the color of water and plants, and was the most valuable substance in Olmec culture. It remains cool to the touch—a magical quality in the hot tropics. It somewhat resembles a modern-day Mexican milagro charm, but for the Olmec the hand most likely represented the completion of life or rulership.

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