Description:

Pre-Columbian, Central America, Costa Rica, Central Highlands, Atlantic Watershed, ca. 1000 to 1400 CE. A meticulously carved trophy head from a dense volcanic rock, depicted as a male visage in a tight fitted cap. The skull fitting cap is formed via interlocking raised ridges, possibly to resemble traditional weaving or embroidery. This is a complete piece and not broken from a larger statue, but rather carved as a head and neck in and of itself to represent a disembodied trophy head! The practice of taking human heads as warfare trophies or during ritualistic sacrifice to bring about agricultural prosperity was ubiquitous throughout Pre-Columbian cultures and this piece exemplifies the practice of headhunting in a less gruesome and highly artistic manner! Size: 4.5" L x 3" W x 4.5" H (11.4 cm x 7.6 cm x 11.4 cm)

Provenance: private San Rafael, California, USA collection, acquired in 1998; ex-private San Francisco, California, USA collection

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#190264

    Condition:
  • Intact and excellent exhibiting a deep earthy aroma when spritzed with water.

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November 15, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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