Description:

From ancient West Mexico, ca. 200 BCE - 200 CE. The form is that of a bowl sitting atop four nubbin feet. The interior features crosshatched, incised grating, and the exterior features incised decoration depicting what is often referred to by scholars as the "reptilian eye" motif. This motif is prevalent in the iconography of many ancient Mexican cultures, as far back as the Olmec. The designs depict distinct representations of reptilian eyes on opposing sides, separated by designs that are often described as flaming brows and undulating body parts. Importantly, the surface of the bowl exhibits the charred, burnished and reddish brown coloration of objects that have been burned. As such, it is likely that this vessel was involved as part of a burnt offering in a ceremony or rite of some kind. 6" diameter. Provenance: Former Dr. Willis Pratt of Univ. of Texas at Austin- Houston, TX private collection. Collected between 1930 - 1960. All items in this auction have been legally acquired, are legal to sell, and guaranteed to be as described or your money back. The starting price is the lowest price at which the lot can sell.

  • Condition: Intact with no repair or restoration. Minor abrasions, chipping, weathering and wear overall. Mineral deposits and encrustations remain. The surface exhibits characteristics (charring, burnishing, and coloration) of archaeological items that have been burned- perhaps as part of an offering.

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October 11, 2013 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