Description:

Pre-Columbian, Mexico to Guatemala, Olmec, ca. 900 to 600 BCE. A fine omphacite jade celt with a rich fern green hue, pecked to a trapezoidal shape, and painstakingly polished to a smooth surface that is nearly reflective. This celt is an ancient tool, shaped like an axe head with a rounded blade and slightly incurved sides that form a straight edge. The surface is delightfully smooth in texture; formed over many hours using painstaking techniques by master artisans and speckled throughout the stone are glimmering inclusions of what might be mica. The lovely green hues of the jade made this a desirable piece, and jade held symbolic power for ancient cultures; perhaps its color was associated with water and vegetation. Size: 4.85" L x 1.5" W (12.3 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: private Atlanta, Georgia, USA collection, purchased in 1994; ex-Bob Sebastian collection, purchased in 1955

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#168804

  • Condition: Minor chips to the butt end and small surface abrasions on the faces, otherwise intact and very good. Smooth with beautiful coloration.

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August 18, 2022 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 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000