San Lorenzo Colossal Head

myminifactory

Matthew Stirling's guide unearthed this colossal head in 1945 at the San Lorenzo site. A renowned American ethnologist, archaeologist, and later administrator at several scientific institutions, Stirling was most famous for his groundbreaking discoveries about the Olmec civilization. Stirling's team excavated the colossal head in 1946, where it lay on its back. It is referred to as either San Lorenzo colossal head 2 or San Lorenzo monument 2. The figure stands out with excellent proportions and sports a classic 'football' style helmet that boasts three bird heads. Weathering and damage are evident, particularly around the lips where the surface is noticeably pockmarked. Estimates place the massive head's weight at approximately 20 tons.