Lot 30A
Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Nayarit, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. This expressive Nayarit pottery figure captures a seated musician in the midst of performance, his body angled forward as he holds a rasp instrument across his torso. The sculptor shaped him with rounded limbs, a gently swelling torso, and a compact seated posture characteristic of Nayarit effigies. His face, modeled with a long projecting nose and narrow eyes, is further distinguished by a prominent septum piercing that emphasizes his status or ceremonial role. A simple loincloth drapes across his waist, rendered with careful folds that mark his place within the social and ritual world of ancient West Mexico. The rasp, detailed with incised ridges, rests firmly in his hands; when scraped with a stick, such instruments produced a rhythmic, percussive sound central to communal dances, ceremonies, and storytelling traditions. Size: 5.6" L x 5.3" W x 11" H (14.2 cm x 13.5 cm x 27.9 cm)
Nayarit artisans favored scenes of daily life and ritual activity, embedding these effigies in shaft tombs as companions, participants, or symbolic representatives of the community. Music held an essential role in this cultural sphere, guiding ceremonies and enlivening gatherings. The musician's focused expression and poised grip on the rasp suggest performance not only as entertainment but as a conduit for shared rhythm, memory, and spiritual presence. This figure stands as a vivid example of Nayarit ceramic artistry, conveying the presence of a musician whose role resonated deeply within the ancient cultures of West Mexico.
Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; ex-private Los Angeles, California, USA collection; ex-major gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, primarily acquired between 1985 and 2005
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.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#199663
- Condition: Weathering to surface with nicks and abrasions as shown, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with heavy earthen and mineral deposits throughout.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 25% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| 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 |