Description:
This is spectacular! A large and hollow statuette from Jalisco, dating to the protoclassic period, circa 100 B.C. - 200 C.E., displaying wonderful details. Jalisco is one of the states in western Mexico from which ceramics of the period come. Its sculpture, most of which was once placed in a shaft-and-chamber tomb, is noted for a very specific style, which can also be seen on this statuette.
The elongated head has a large nose with drilled nostrils, prominent ears (the right also drilled to indicate the opening of the ear; the left one without such an opening), wide open and staring eyes, and an open mouth displaying two rows of teeth. His tall, elaborate headdress, with a flap protecting the neck, is adorned with several straps. The round, exaggerated shoulders are surfaced with small circular pellets that have been interpreted as scarification patterns or tattoos. Many of these characteristics were markers of high rank. The person depicted is wearing a kind of short trousers. He is leaning forward, supporting himself on the club he is holding with both hands. The statuette is painted in cream and deep orange.
Dating:
Circa 100 B.C. - 200 C.E.
Size:
Height 39.5 cm, width 22 cm, depth 28 cm.
Provenance:
Dutch private collection, acquired from Artemis Gallery in 2002-2003; previously prominent US private collection, Texas, acquired in the late 1960s.
Condition:
Professionally repaired from a few large pieces; some surface wear and unimportant surface damage as shown; a small and shallow chip on the right heel (ca 7 mm); some damage to the back of the headdress and its "crest", probably caused when the statue was lying on its back, putting too much stress on this part of the headdress. Much of the original colours remaining. A fabulous piece with vibrant colours!
SOLD
Stock number:
P0756