Lot 25
Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Olmec, ca. 900 to 500 BCE. A remarkable andesite stone pendant or applique low relief carved into a figure in profile with skillfully delineated and quintessentially "were-jaguar" facial details - downturned jaguar mouth, slanted eyes, high arching brows, and jowly cheeks. The figure is seated with arms and legs crossed over the body in a slightly more stylized and simplistic manner than the expressive, scowling face. Three perforations are drilled in the head and at the waist for suspension on a cord or sewing into cloth. Based on burial practices, particularly the objects from important burials at La Venta in the present-day Mexican state of Tabasco, researchers believe that green stones were reserved for high nobility, royalty, and the gods. The color was associated with vibrant growth, renewal, and, given the cyclical conception of life and death, rejuvenation after death. Size: 2.3" L x 1.125" W (5.8 cm x 2.9 cm)
To the Olmecs, figurines like this example carried many meanings, not all of which are obvious to us today. The smaller greenstone figures and amulets like this example are thought to represent totems or divinities. The artistry and technique of Olmec sculptural works is remarkable given what little technology that was available to them. To polish and shape this andesite stone they probably used string cut techniques, drilling, and polishing using an abrasive such as sand and water - a very time consuming and labor--intensive process!
Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010
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#175088
- Condition: Chips and abrasion to lower legs. Minor surface nicks, otherwise intact. Light mineral deposits in recessed areas. Overall excellent condition with sharp details.
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| $300 | $999 | $50 |
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| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
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| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |