Description:

Pre-Columbian, southern Mexico, Chiapas region, Izapa Ruins, Maya culture, late Preclassic period, ca. 100 BCE to 100 CE. A stunning hand-carved zoomorphic stone head of a person wearing a jaguar mask. Presenting with almond-shaped eyes, a prominent arched brow, and plump open lips, the curious visage juts out its chin from the mouth of a jaguar head. The snout of the beast rests on the figure's forehead below two recessed eyes and pointed ears. Remains of sienna, burnt umber, black, and white pigment dot the beige stone. A remarkable example from ancient Maya culture! Size: 5" L x 3.5" W x 6" H (12.7 cm x 8.9 cm x 15.2 cm)

The jaguar symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this king of beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the Americas.

Provenance: private Colgate, Wisconsin, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 1990s; ex John Montovan collection, Dekalb, Illinois USA

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#156781

  • Condition: Fragment of a larger piece. Chip to mouth and nose with minor nicks/chips and abrasions throughout. Expected surface wear with softening of detail commensurate with age. Collection number handwritten on side. Lovely earthen encrustations and nice remains of pigment.

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

Artemis Fine Arts

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