The Maya Indian men, particularly those in the altiplano around the town of Nahuala, carve wooden items for their daily use. Pipes and hondas (slingshots) are the items most commonly encountered.
This is very well-carved wooden slingshot depicting a quetzal bird figure. It looks like an older slingshot with a very nice patina, and there is residue of some light gray paint in the grooves. This slingshot is still functional since it retains the original rubber sling. It is carved from a soft straight wood, probably cedar. Overall length is about 5 inches.