Lot 57B
Pre-Columbian, Mesoamerica, Proto-Maya, ca. 300 BCE to 250 CE; West Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE; Nayarit, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE; Michoacan / Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE; Gulf Coast, Veracruz, ca. 300 to 900 CE. A charming and varied ensemble of five Pre-Columbian ceramic figures brings together distinct regional traditions, each piece carrying its own quiet narrative shaped in clay. The largest figure, from Colima, sits with legs splayed and arms extended outward, its broad, grounded form and simplified features reflecting the sculptural language of West Mexico shaft tomb cultures. The figure's posture suggests openness and presence, as if poised between rest and gesture. Beside it, a proto-Maya figure of similar seated pose presents a more compact and introspective character. With hands resting at the hips and a softly modeled face, the figure conveys a sense of contained energy, its rounded body and minimal detailing emphasizing volume over ornament. Size of largest (Colima female): 5.4" W x 6.5" H (13.7 cm x 16.5 cm)
A small maskette attributed to Michoacan or Colima offers a more intimate expression, its perforations suggesting it was once worn or attached, perhaps as a pendant or funerary adornment. Nearby, a reclining Nayarit figure lies atop a low platform or bed, an evocative form often associated with tomb scenes, domestic life, or ritual repose. Completing the group is a Veracruz head distinguished by its finely striated hair, carefully incised to create texture and rhythm across the surface. The facial features are sensitively rendered, offering a glimpse into the aesthetic priorities of Gulf Coast artisans. Together, these works illustrate the diversity of Pre-Columbian figural traditions, from the volumetric solidity of West Mexico to the more refined and stylized approaches of Veracruz. United by their material and purpose, they likely served as companions in life and death, embodying identity, status, and belief in enduring form.
Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; larger woman: ex-Los Angeles Modern Auctions, Los Angeles, California, USA; smaller woman: ex-Artemis Gallery, Louisville, Colorado, USA; ex-private collection, Virginia, USA, acquired before 1979; bed: ex-Los Angeles Modern Auctions, Los Angeles, California, USA; mask: ex-Artemis Gallery, Louisville, Colorado, USA; ex-private Leonard collection, Virginia, USA, acquired before 1979
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Please note that buyers are responsible for understanding and complying with the import regulations of their destination country. While we carefully prepare and document all shipments, we cannot be held responsible for customs delays, clearance issues, additional duties or taxes, or any seizure of property. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.).
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#199198
- Condition: Largest is missing part of necklace and has had repair to proper right arm with restoration over break line. Maskette has been professionally repaired with restoration and loss to nasal ornament. Proto-Maya figure has repairs to arms and head with light resurfacing along break lines. Loss to headdress on Veracruz head. All have nicks, abrasions and expected surface wear, commensurate with age. Good detail and scattered earthen deposits throughout.
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