Despite the catalogue listing ("Carved Shell Trumpet" https://collections.bowers.org/objects/90310/carved-shell-trumpet) and similarity to other shell instruments (https://www.bowers.org/index.php/collection/collection-blog/call-of-the-sea-shell-instruments-from-western-mexico), this shell has been cut in half, so it was likely ornamental or worn as a pendant.
(Carved Shell, c. 1200-1500; Veracruz, Mexico, North America)
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I know almost nothing about Mexican art and culture, so I'm curious if there's a connection between the heart eyes on this carving and the ones sometimes decorated on Día de Muertos calaveras.
