Lot 205B
Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Olmec, ca. 900 to 400 BCE. An exquisite mask carved from a grey basalt stone by an artisan of the Olmec culture, the oldest major civilization in Mexico. A rare form, as it depicts the visage from the upper lip to the crown of the head (rather than including the chin and lower lip), this piece is expertly worked with graceful, subtle contours and displays signature Olmec traits including jowly cheeks, a straight nose, a downturned jaguar mouth, puffy eyelids, and slanted eyes that may have contained inlays. The blending of both lifelike (relatively naturalistic) and contrasting abstract representation in this piece is captivating. The head is characteristically misshapen, a sign of high status most likely due to artificial cranial deformation, as the Olmec traditionally wore tight-fitting helmets; note that it also has a round depression in the center, which may have held an inlay. A remarkable example, impressive for the artisan's adept technique and indisputable artistry. Custom stand. Size: 6.875" W x 8.125" H (17.5 cm x 20.6 cm); 9.75" H (24.8 cm) on stand
The visage of this mask is neither entirely human nor entirely supernatural; instead it most likely represented an idealized entity that presents otherworldly aspects. The upper lip (and implied mouth form), for instance, references the so-called were-jaguar, a mighty mythical being with human and jaguar traits. The purpose of a mask like this has not been confirmed by archaeologists; however, the polished concave depression on the back of the mask suggests that it was intended to be placed over a face or mummy bundle.
Provenance: private R.D. collection, Long Beach, California, USA collection, acquired over 25 years from various major galleries.
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#124296
- Condition: Expected surface wear commensurate with age. Missing inlays to eyes and hair/head ornament. A few nicks/chips to peripheries, ears, and nose. Bilaterally perforated at the forehead for suspension or attachment.
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