Description:

Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A charming hand carved lizard effigy vessel with a petite cavity for grinding or holding ritualistic substance, made from a light gray volcanic stone. The squat legs support the thick body that is drilled and hollowed out in the center as a circular receptacle - perfect for use as a mortar to crush ritualistic herbs or perhaps for holding offerings. Lizards are regarded in many cultures as sun worshipers, basking in the same light that unprotected human flesh burns under. Their ability to shed their skin, and some species to regrow their tails, were symbols of regeneration in ancient Mesoamerica. Size: 7" L x 3" W x 2" H (17.8 cm x 7.6 cm x 5.1 cm)

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#174826

  • Condition: Loss to front left foot as shown. Abrasions and natural surface pitting. Old inventory labels on surface of stomach. Light mineral and earthen deposits in recessed areas.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

December 1, 2022 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 26.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000