Lot 124A
Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Olmec, ca. 12th to 9th century BCE. A skillfully carved greenstone anthropomorphic figure, striding forward with the left foot advanced and reaching out with the right hand. The figure presents classic Olmecoid features - an elongated misshapen head, a jowly 'babyface' visage, double pierced almond-shaped eyes, a broad nose, and downturned were-jaguar lips parted so as to reveal incised teeth. Grooves on the feet and hands indicate toes and fingers. The figure's naturalistic animated pose conjures a marvelous sense of motion, and the sage green stone is inherently beautiful as well as symbolic. (See more on this symbolism below.) Size: 1.75" W x 3.7" H (4.4 cm x 9.4 cm)
To the Olmecs, figures like this example carried many meanings, not all of which are obvious to us today; however, scholars surmise that the color green was associated with vibrant growth, renewal, and given the cyclical conception of life and death, rejuvenation after death. A breathtaking work of art in near miniature, replete with strong technique, intriguing symbolism, and an inherently beautiful green stone. A superb sculptural work from the Olmec, the early Mesoamerican civilization that most regard as the forerunner of subsequent ancient American cultures such as the Maya and Aztecs!
Provenance: private Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA collection; ex-Minerva Gallery; ex-Benjamin Vega, California, USA, acquired in 2006 to 2007; ex-Gene and Virginia George, brought to the USA from 1961 to 1966
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#154967
- Condition: Upper chest and head professionally reattached to body, with nearly invisible resurfacing and overpainting along break lines. Minor abrasions to limbs, body, and head, with light encrustations within some recessed areas. Light earthen deposits throughout.
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| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
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| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |