Description:

Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala, Maya Territories, Late Classic, ca. 600 to 900 CE. A deep grey chert "eccentric" in the form of a sinuous lizard, its body viewed from above/below, with a dramatically curving tail, splayed feet, and a triangular head. Chert flints are made using percussion, striking them with other stones; the process required to get a fine point requires training and skill. This particular piece of chert glows with grey, lavender, and cream hues, especially when a light is shone close to its surface. Flints carved not as weapons, but as interesting designs, had sacrificial and ceremonial use for the Maya, and are often found as offerings in caches inside of stone monuments and other architectural features. Size: 2.1" W x 5.95" H (5.3 cm x 15.1 cm); 6.5" H (16.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-Merrin Gallery, New York, New York, USA; ex-private Chicago, Illinois, USA collection, acquired pre-1970s

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#148180

  • Condition: Intact, in excellent condition with light deposits on surface.

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October 3, 2019 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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