Lot 8A
Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Mixtec culture, ca. 1200 to 1500 CE. A delightful ensemble of 7 copper pendants in the form of monkey heads. Each of the ancient simians displays applied and openwork facial features with annular eyes beneath an arched brow, circular nostrils, and a large mouth held in a wide, open smile. A pair of coiled ears flanks each expressive visage, while 3 dangling adornments hang from the ears and chin of each. The fascinating heads are all topped with sizeable suspension loops, formed from a slender copper wire. Size (all about the same): 1.8" W x 2.6" H (4.6 cm x 6.6 cm)
Monkeys were prevalent in the Mesoamerican lands, with the two most common species being the howler monkey and the spider monkey. However, the monkeys depicted on hachas are highly stylized, abstracting the monkey's essential characteristics. Monkeys were represented often in various art forms, including stone pedestal sculptures, mushroom stones, architectural reliefs, ceramic figures, whistles, and effigy vessels, as well as hachas for the traditional ballgame.
The Mixtec artisans were masters of metallurgy, surpassing other Mesoamerican cultures in craftsmanship. Metallurgy was introduced into the region around 900 CE. Mesoamericans used metals for ornamentation, though their tools and weaponry remained Neolithic. Many experts agree that Mixtec metal wares set the standard for Mesoamerican cultures. The Oaxaca master silversmiths also used copper and gold to make pendants, masks, beads, buckles, rings, and bells such as these employing hammering and lost wax process techniques.
Provenance: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Dr. David Harner collection, Springdale, Arkansas, USA, acquired between the 1950s and 1960s
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#168838
- Condition: All intact and excellent with rich patina and nice encrustations throughout.
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| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
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| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |