Description:

Mexico, ca. 18th century CE. Hand-carved from a cactus, depicting the severed head of Saint John the Baptist bleeding after his execution. The visage comprised of downward looking inlaid eyes, parted mouth, pale white skin, and realistic bone structure is uncannily naturalistic and displays the high key emotional and dramatic influences of Spanish Art. According to the Bible, King Herod's daughter Salome requested Saint John the Baptist's beheading. The heinous act was prompted by her mother, Herodias, who sought revenge, because the prophet had condemned her incestuous marriage to Herod. A superb rendering displaying expert carving technique and fine painting. Custom, museum quality stand. Size: head measures 5-1/2" x 4-1/4" (14 x 10.8 cm); 6" (15.3 cm) high on stand.

Provenance: Ex-private T. Jones collection, New York, NY.

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#110541

  • Condition: Possible repair to forehead. Else intact with nicks, surface hairlines and wear attained over the years.

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October 22, 2015 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$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 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000