Lot 58B
Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Vera Cruz, ca. 600 - 900 CE. Examples of this type depicting a figure seated on a bench are rare. This example is exceptionally rare in that it features a removable lid, and doubles as a cache vessel or incensario. The seated figure is wearing what some interpret as a buccal mask. This feature has also been interpreted as relating to Xipe Totec worship, depictions of which show participants wearing flayed skin- typically on the face. Notice how the mouth/nose covering really extends over a large part of the face. The "T" shaped slits in the box bottom may imply that this was perhaps for burning incense to allow smoke or fragrance to escape, otherwise any kind of offering could have been deposited inside. Excellent root marks, mineral and manganese deposits remain, as evidence of hundreds of years of burial. Size: 8-3/4"H x ~7"W.
Provenance: Former Arizona, USA private collection. Originally collected in 1955. A copy of a letter from the previous owner will be provided to the buyer sharing detailed prior ownership and provenance information.
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#110518
- Condition: Minor repairs/restoration to ancient breaks at lid and feather, one hand restored, one slab foot on base re-glued/restoration over break, and one of figure's feet re-glued/restoration over break. Overall surface loss, abrasion, weathering.
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