Ancient Mexican plough (model)

Model of Ancient Mexican plough

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Model of Ancient Mexican plough
Science Museum Group
© The Board of Trustees of the Science Museum

Model of Ancient Mexican plough

This is a representative type of the implement in use prior to the Christian Era, some of which may still be in use in the less developed countries. The early farming tools were often constructed from a suitably shaped branch of a tree, probably fitted with an ox-horn. These ploughs are unable to turn a furrow slice, but stirred the soil in a manner resembling the modern cultivator tine.

This type was used in Mexico to the end of the 19th century. It was probably introduced by the Spaniards and Portuguese at the time of the conquest, as there was a similarity in the implements used in these countries.

Details

Category:
Agricultural Engineering
Object Number:
1926-819
Materials:
copper (alloy) and wood (unidentified)
Measurements:
overall (as displayed): 70 mm x 220 mm x 75 mm, 0.19 kg
type:
model - representation
credit:
Steinmetz, Mrs. B.M.; Steinmetz, Major A.S.B.