Lot 138
Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Nayarit, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A beautifully modeled polychrome ballplayer figure seated with legs looped inward under a shell-shaped groin protector, holding a relatively large black ball in both hands before his body. He wears a thick striped headband, large nose ring, a painted multi-strand beaded necklace with an applied filet over the front, elaborate ear ornaments, and painted white netted armor or garment over his torso. Most impressive is the intricately delineated black body paint and/or tattoo marks adorning his face. His visage is quite expressive with wide, round eyes, a pronounced nose, and open mouth. The Mesoamerican ballgame players were typically warriors or noble individuals who were well trained and highly revered - and judging by the proud countenance on this example, this gent is no exception. Size: 7.125" W x 10.25" H (18.1 cm x 26 cm)
The Pre-Columbian ballgame originated in the first millennium BCE, most likely in the Valley of Mexico, and was regarded as not merely an athletic activity but rather as a ceremonial means of controlling or predicting the future. The ancients of Mesoamerica played ballgames in a sacred ballcourt space. Some cultures expected players to dedicate themselves to practicing the game and preparing for matches; however, other cultures forced war captives to play the game and sacrificed the losing team. Another custom involved using the possessions of onlookers as prizes for the victorious team.
Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired between 1969-1985
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#126902
- Condition: Right arm reattached. Possible repair to curved front section of left leg. Otherwise just minor surface wear and nice areas of mineral deposits.
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