Description:

**First Time At Auction**

Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Atlantic Watershed, ca. 800 to 1200 CE. Carved from a grey volcanic stone, a monkey head with simian features and a four-lobed crown or tuft of fur atop its head. Monkeys in ancient Costa Rican art were probably modeled on the native spider monkey, known for being inquisitive and chattering. In addition to being entertaining creatures, they are also often associated with creation myths both in Central America and in the Mayan world, suggesting an almost evolutionary understanding of the monkey / human relationship. Various myths recount earlier worlds inhabited by monkeys rather than humans that were destroyed by cataclysms, making monkeys like proto-humans. What's more, monkeys were often associated with writing and art, perhaps because of their observed intelligence. Size: 2.25" W x 4.5" H (5.7 cm x 11.4 cm); 8" H (20.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired prior to 1970

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#128630

  • Condition: A head most likely from a larger figure. Small loss to tuft of fur or crown; loss to left ear area. Normal surface wear commensurate with age and weathering.

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December 20, 2018 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$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 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000