Description:

Pre-Columbian, Ecuador, Valdivian/Chorrera, ca. 2500 to 500 BCE. A stone carved in the shape of a jaguar tooth and incised with facial features by the ancients of Ecuador. Though minimalist in style, the visage conveys an intriguing countenance displaying a gentle smile perhaps? Or is that a somewhat blasé frown? The stone itself has inherent beauty with creamy beige hues and grey inclusions. Of course the piece is imbued with layers of iconographic meaning given the symbolism of the jaguar in the Pre-Columbian world. The jaguar symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this king of beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World. A nocturnal animal, the jaguar sleeps in caves and dark places and creeps quietly in the forest, evoking great mystery. Furthermore its spotted coat represented the starry night sky. A very rare effigy piece, possessing many levels of symbolism. Size: 4.25" H (10.8 cm); 4.75" H (12.1 cm) on stand

Provenance: Ex-Peter Arnovock collection

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#117366

  • Condition: Tiny nick to upper end and expected surface scratches commensurate with age. Overall excellent.

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October 10, 2016 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
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