Lot 7
Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Michoacan, ca. 500 to 100 BCE. This unusual and large hand-built pottery figure is notably made with 2 heads protruding from the shoulder, sharing one body - perhaps a rare portrayal of conjoined twins! The hollow and cylindrical body extends vertically, forming a pedestal with a broad opening on the base, their applied legs bent outward in a seated position to the front. The body flattens slightly at the broad shoulders where a circular vent hole is set between the necks. Their ovoid heads have pinched noses and impressed eyes and mouths, their headdress band coiled across their brows. The surface is slipped in beige with burnished orange and burnt sienna hues. Some historians believe these double-headed figures represent some magical aspect of human nature - perhaps a shamanistic transformation of sorts - or metaphorical, such as the concept of duality in human behavior. However, others have posited convincing arguments that such examples depict a set of conjoined twins. Size: 5.9" L x 8.9" W x 13.1" H (15 cm x 22.6 cm x 33.3 cm)
Cf. the Israel Museum, Jerusalem, accession number B80.2978.
This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report will accompany the item upon purchase.
Provenance: ex-private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Ancient Objects, Cranston, Rhode Island, USA, May 8, 2021, lot 107, purchased at Rex Arrowsmith's, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA in 1972
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#181973
- Condition: Softening to facial details. Some light surface abrasions and chips to legs and high pointed areas, else intact and excellent with good remains of pigment. Rich mineral and earthen encrustations on interior. TL holes to underside rim of base and verso of right head.
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