Description:

Mexico, Olmec, ca. 1500 - 1200 BCE. This jade pendant or piercer assumes the form of a hummingbird and demonstrates the sophisticated design and skill of Olmec lapidaries. Delicate, iridescent hummingbirds were associated with the sky, the celestial sun, moon, and Venus. The hummingbird's spectacular, shiny feathering and aerial acrobatics make it an ideal solar metaphor. Since hummingbirds hover motionless and fly up, down, and even backwards, these flight patterns relate to the sun's hovering in the sky at the solstices when it also reverses in celestial direction. Beyond this rich iconography, the rich green jade and fine artisanry make this piece irresistible! Custom stand. 3"W x 1"H

Provenance: Ex-Mariana Thomas Collection, Fort Worth, TX

All items in this auction have been legally acquired, are legal to sell, and guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids, papered by our parent company, Artemis Gallery Ancient Art.

The starting price is the lowest price at which the lot can sell.

  • Condition: Excellent condition.

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December 6, 2013 9:00 AM MST
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