Description:

Pre-Columbian, Ecuador, Valdivian culture, ca. 1800 to 1500 BCE. A fabulous axe head hand-carved from mottled stone of dark green color with beige inclusions; one side is lighter than the other. The axe exhibits a rounded blade and slightly incurved sides that flare out subtly to a straight edge, and the surface is delightfully smooth in texture; formed over many hours using painstaking techniques by master artisans. Hand axes like this one, although shaped like a utilitarian tool, were made specifically for ritual purposes and symbolized the power of the bearer. They were often incorporated in burials and laid to rest with the deceased. Size: 4.625" W x 5.5" H (11.7 cm x 14 cm); 6.875" H (17.5 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private West Hollywood, California, USA collection, purchased in 2011; ex-Lands Beyond

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#179177

  • Condition: Minor nicks and abrasions, otherwise intact and excellent. Great surface smoothness throughout.

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October 26, 2023 8:00 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 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000