Description:

A large, striking sculptural head fragment from a larger Pre-Columbian figure from ancient Veracruz, Mexico, ca. 600 - 900 CE. Such depictions are known to be representative of the deity Xipe Totec, showing a ritual participant wearing a flayed human skin as a mask. This is often apparent, as is the case on this piece, by the swollen appearance of lips, eyelids, etc., as well as slits for the eyes, covered by sagging eyelids. The figure also wears an elaborate headdress, supported by a strap at the chin, likely depicting the open mouth and snout of a reptile or serpent. The head sits fine and stable on its own, but the buyer could choose to have a custom display stand made, if desired. Measures approximately 7-1/2" tall x about 7 1/2" wide. Provenance: Former Indiana, USA collection. All items in this auction are legal to buy/sell under U.S. statute covering cultural patrimony per United States Code 2600, CHAPTER 14 -- CONVENTION ON CULTURAL PROPERTY, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

  • Condition: Fragmentary, once part of a larger figure. Repaired from fragments with professional restoration and fill to blend the repairs. Some loss, chips, abrasions, weathering and wear, with ancient breaks visible from the rear.

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Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

March 14, 2014 9:00 AM MDT
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