Description:

Pre-Columbian, central Mexico, Aztec, Post-Classic period, ca. 1300 to 1521 CE. An outstanding stone relief fragment featuring the face of Mictlantecuhtli, the Aztec god of death and the king of Mictlan, the lowest and northernmost section of the underworld. Surmounted by long plumes, the god displays a lizard-like head with a huge, target motif eye and a skeletal jaw held open to receive the stars that descend into him during the daytime. Mictlantecuhtli is one of the principal gods of the Aztecs and is the most prominent of several gods and goddesses of death and the underworld. The worship of Mictlantecuhtli sometimes involved ritual cannibalism, with human flesh being consumed in and around the temple. Other names given to Mictlantecuhtli include Ixpuztec ("Broken Face"), Nextepehua ("Scatterer of Ashes"), and Tzontemoc ("He Who Lowers His Head"). Size: 8.4" L x 12" W x 13.6" H (21.3 cm x 30.5 cm x 34.5 cm); 15.9" H (40.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Please note that this item is heavy/oversized. Please inquire about shipping prior to bidding.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, acquired from 2000 to 2010; ex-Alfred Stendhal Gallery, Los Angeles 1950-60's

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#185268

  • Condition: Fragment from a larger relief with nicks, chips, and surface wear as shown. Nice remaining detail and encrustations in areas.

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April 12, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
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$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
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