Description:

Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A remarkable jade pectoral pendant hand-pecked, polished, and etched with the stylized anthropomorphic visage of a lord. The ruler stares forward portraying the classic stylized facial features formed via careful string-cut techniques: large eyes, a broad nose, and an open mouth, all adorned by a headdress, necklace, and ear flares. As was the custom, the artisan worked with the natural shape of the jade rather than lose any precious surface area- hence the asymmetry. A drill hole pierces the piece horizontally, enabling it 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: 2.3" L x 0.9" W x 1.9" H (5.8 cm x 2.3 cm x 4.8 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.

Cf. The Walters Art Museum, 2009.20.8.

Provenance: private R.D. collection, Long Beach, California, USA collection, acquired in the late 1980s; ex-private Finello collection

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#189544

  • Condition: Age-expected surface wear as shown, but otherwise, intact, excellent, and wearable with nice detail. Light earthen deposits in some recessed areas.

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October 18, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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