Description:

Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A stunning low-relief jade pectoral pendant exhibiting expertly polished surfaces and sophisticated anthropomorphic stylization. The circular pendant features a dignified vizard with ovoid eyes, bullseye-form earspools, a necklace comprised of 3 sizable rectangular beads, and an elaborate headdress that resembles an abstract avian creature. As was the custom, the artisan worked with the natural shape of the jade rather than lose any precious surface area- hence the asymmetry. Drilled suspension holes are oriented along the upper edges of the headdress, enabling this piece to be worn as a pendant or clothing ornament by a person prestige and power - either in life or death as a grave good. Size: 0.49" L x 2.15" W x 2.11" H (1.2 cm x 5.5 cm x 5.4 cm)

Jade was revered by the Maya not only for its beauty, but also because it had spiritual power - it was believed to be the embodiment of the wind and the "breath" that formed the Maya soul.

Provenance: ex-private West Palm Beach, Florida, USA collection, ex Wormer collection before 1990

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#186123

  • Condition: Surface wear along proper lower left corner and commensurate area of verso as shown, otherwise intact and excellent. Great preservation to most carved details, and great stone color throughout.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

June 14, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 27.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
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