Description:

Pre-Columbian, Central Mexico, from Xoco, Aztec, ca. 1300 CE - 1500 CE. Important sculptural representation of a seated Aztec Old Fire God carved in high relief from grey volcanic stone. According to the Aztec religion, Huehuet?otl-Xiuhtecuhtli was associated with ideas of purification, transformation and regeneration of the world through fire and came to be known as the Fire God. Thought to be responsible for the creation of the sun, he was considered one of the founding deities of the world. Wonderful Aztec stylings with strong angular forms and expressive visage. Aztec sculptures range from intimately scaled pieces to colossal, public monuments. Unfortunately, the Spanish Conquistadors destroyed many works, as they disapproved of what they perceived to be "heathen" idolatry. The fact that this piece survived the arrival of the colonialists - not to mention its outstanding aesthetic, skillful technique, as well as important iconography makes it a rare treasure indeed. 8.75"L x 10.00"W x 8.50"H (22.23 L x 25.40 W x 21.59 H cm) Provenance: Ex-Dr. Allen Heflin collection, acquired in the 1950s. Dr. Heflin was an amateur archaeologist as well as registered veterinarian with the US Department of Agriculture working in Mexico from 1945 until 1962. All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

  • Condition: Minor surface wear. Near choice.

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December 5, 2014 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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