Lot 41
Pre-Columbian, Mesoamerica, Olmec, ca. 1200 to 400 BCE; Maya, ca. 250 to 900 CE; Veracruz, ca. 300 to 900 CE. A vivid gathering of five pottery heads, each carrying the imprint of distinct Mesoamerican traditions, from the monumental legacy of the Olmec to the refined naturalism of Veracruz and the imaginative spirit of the Maya. Rendered in warm earthen clay, the group balances stylization and individuality, with expressive faces, incised details, and carefully modeled features. The upper row presents a striking contrast - an Olmec head at left with its characteristic rounded features and contemplative gaze, alongside a rare Maya armadillo effigy head, its elongated snout and textured surface translating animal form into ceramic sculpture. Below, three Veracruz examples display softer modeling and individualized expressions, with headdresses, ear ornaments, and calm, almost introspective faces that reflect the region's sculptural sensibility. Size of largest (armadillo): 4.2" W x 3.8" H (10.7 cm x 9.7 cm)
Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; largest head, K-34, K-35: ex-private Los Angeles, California, USA collection; ex-major gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, primarily acquired between 1985 and 2005
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#200710
- Condition: Zoomorph head has been repaired with break lines and adhesive visible. All are fragments from larger pieces with chipping and losses as shown. Good remaining detail and earthen deposits throughout.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $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 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |