Description:

Pre-Columbian, Maya Territories, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A stunning jadeite pendant, hand-carved in the abstract form of a right-facing figure wearing a conical headdress. Drilled laterally for suspension, the pendant perhaps depicts a lord or warrior wearing a prominent collar and an annular earspool as his visage displays a bulging eye, a bulbous nose, and full, closed lips. As was the custom, the artisan worked with the natural shape of the stone rather than lose any precious surface area- hence the asymmetrical neckline. Jade was revered by the Maya not only for its beauty, but also because it had spiritual power - it was believed to be the embodiment of the wind and the "breath" that formed the Maya soul. This spectacular pendant is pristine and choice and could easily be strung on a cord or chain as a wearable piece of ancient history! Size: 1.1" W x 1.4" H (2.8 cm x 3.6 cm)

Provenance: ex-Long Beach, California, USA collection, acquired over 25 years from various major galleries

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#124327

  • Condition: Some light surface wear as shown, but otherwise intact, excellent, and wearable as a pendant with nice remaining detail.

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March 17, 2024 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
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