Description:

Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Michoacan, ca. 100 BCE. A fascinating figure of a musician seated on a round base. There are several interesting features - first, the figure is either wearing an antler-headdress or their head is merging into one of a deer. Second, the figure has a curved cylindrical band that could be interpreted as either an umbilical cord or a phallus; it seems to go from the round stand into the navel area. Size: 2" L x 3.95" W x 4.55" H (5.1 cm x 10 cm x 11.6 cm)

The figure's head is red, with white and black striped details on the lower body. The figure has twin conical earrings and has its arms raised to hold an instrument to its lips that has a flared end painted white. How to interpret this figure? The antler headdress or half-human/half-animal shape of the head suggests a shaman; if the cylinder is a phallus, then that is often linked in Mesoamerican artwork to a state of religious ecstasy brought on by the use of drugs. Deer hunting is often associated with marriage, and deer symbolism sometimes has a sexual element in Mesoamerica. Beyond these vague ideas, however, it is very difficult to understand this ancient sculpture. What do you think?

Provenance: Ex-Triffo Collection, acquired in the 1970s

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#119631

  • Condition: The left side (facing) of the head has been repaired and repainted.

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January 19, 2017 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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