Artwork
Serpent's Heads at Chichenitsa
Serpent's Heads at Chichenitsa is a photographic photography by J. Allan Cash. It dates from 1930 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This black and white photograph captures two large stone serpent heads at the base of a staircase, carved into a wall constructed from rough stones.
Subject & Meaning
The serpent heads, with detailed carvings resembling scales, appear to guard the staircase, and are part of a larger architectural structure, likely a temple.
Technique & Style
The photograph focuses on the architectural detail of the serpentine sculptures, presenting a close-up view of the carvings and textures.
Context
The image is associated with a collection of similar photographs, such as those found in the Victoria and Albert Museum.
Artist & collection
Artist
J. Allan Cash carried a Rolleiflex everywhere, even to the Yucatán jungles where he’d crouch in the heat waiting for the light to hit the serpent carvings at Chichén Itzá just right. His black-and-white prints make the…
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