Lot 162A
Veracruz Pottery Male Figure w/ Headdress & Bitumen
Veracruz Pottery Male Figure w/ Headdress & Bitumen
Starting Bid: $300
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Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Gulf Coast, Veracruz, ca. 600 to 900 CE. A finely modeled terracotta figure of a standing male, notable for its expressive features and elaborate adornment. The figure wears a short loincloth, shoulder pads, a necklace, and circular ear ornaments. His elaborate headdress, secured by a chin strap, is crowned with a complex coiffure featuring rounded elements and a vertical plume-like projection. The head, body, and coiffure retain traces of black bitumen pigment, applied in bold streaks across the face, chest, and thighs to accentuate ritual or ceremonial identity. The short arms are held rigidly at his sides, while the broad chest and sturdy legs emphasize physical presence. His narrowed eyes and pursed lips convey a stern, almost defiant expression, further heightened by the use of black pigment to outline features. Size: 4.8" W x 8" H (12.2 cm x 20.3 cm); 10.7" H (27.2 cm) on included custom stand.
Such figures, part of Veracruz's Classic tradition, are thought to embody elite or ritual participants, possibly linked to ceremonies of fertility, warfare, or performance.
This piece captures the distinct Veracruz sculptural style, blending naturalism with stylized costume details and striking surface decoration, making it a powerful testament to the artistry and spiritual worldview of ancient Gulf Coast societies.
Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; ex-Caza Sikes, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; ex-collection of Ann M. Meranus, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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#196621
- Condition: Missing nose and part of headdress. Professionally repaired with restoration over break lines. Scattered earthen deposits and liberal remains of pigment and detail. Permanently adhered to custom stand.
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| 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 |