Description:

Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, probably Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. Carved from a seashell of rich cream and coral hues, a maskette presenting a striking visage comprised of openwork large round eyes, nostrils, and mouth - with a dramatic crested area at the upper end resembling a stylish curl. Particularly impressive is how the natural contours and colors of the shell take on human qualities, on the one hand enlivening the piece, on the other intensifying the skull-like theatrical quality. Two perforations at top for suspension. Custom stand. Size: 3.125" W at widest point x 3.75" H (7.9 cm x 9.5 cm); 5.125" H (13 cm) on stand

Provenance: private R.D. collection, Long Beach, California, USA collection, acquired over twenty-five years from various major galleries

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#124306

  • Condition: Old surface losses, probably naturally incurred, at the lower "chin". Overall excellent.

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June 29, 2017 7:00 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