The Were-Jaguar

The were-jaguar is one of the most prominent and enigmatic designs of the Olmec people, who flourished between 1200 BCE and 400 BCE in south-central Mexico. Seen in murals and statues, the design is characterized by a down-turned mouth, almond-shaped eyes, fleshy lips, and a cleft forehead. Though the term is derived from the Old English “were,” meaning “man,” and “jaguar,” the predatory cat revered by the Olmec people, some scholars believe were-jaguars represent a different animal. Which one? Discuss

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