Description:

Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Guerrero region, Mezcala culture, ca. 500 to 200 BCE. A fine abstract anthropomorphic axe god figure of a rotund form, hand-carved from mottled greenstone with light and dark inclusions. The figure squats on folded legs, that are delineated by a small cleft between the legs, and his arms are folded across his protruding stomach. The bulbous head has a jutting chin with a triangular nose, and a string-cut mouth, all beneath a hemispherical forehead. These facial features are abstract, and only give an idea of a human form, which is characteristic of axe god effigies. Ancient Mezcala artisans were adept at reducing the human form down to minimal, elegant shapes via the meticulous string-cut technique, and this statue exemplifies their desire for this stylized form. Size: 4.5" W x 7" H (11.4 cm x 17.8 cm)

Provenance: ex-private collection of the late Father Bader, University of St. Thomas, Houston, Texas, USA; exhibited in the University of St. Thomas Art Gallery, acquired prior to 2000

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#154271

  • Condition: Light mineral deposits across surface. Minor abrasions and nicks. Pretty natural stone inclusions.

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March 18, 2021 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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