Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Guerrero, Mezcala, late Preclassic period, ca. 700 to 200 BCE. Skillfully carved from serpentine, an anthropomorphic mask of an impressively large size. Millennia before modern artists represented humans with minimalist geometric motifs, the Mezcala of Guerrero, coastal southwestern Mexico, were similarly creating abstract depictions of humans with their sculptural works like this example. The features were achieved via sophisticated carving and string cutting techniques. Also interesting, in Mesoamerica, greenstone like the serpentine used to create this mask, was considered more valuable than gold! Size: 7.5" L x 5.5" W (19 cm x 14 cm)

Please note: Lucite stand used for photography is not included.

Provenance: Ex-old private New England collection, acquired in the 1970s; ex Andre Emmerich Gallery, New York City, New York, USA ca 1955-1960; ex private Chicago, Illinois, USA collection, 1950s - 1960s

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#162454

Expected surface wear with pitting and abrasions commensurate with age. Softening to features, but imagery is still discernible. Ample remains of red pigment. Concave verso is smooth and lustrous. Mineral, earthen, and dendritic deposits grace the surface. Andrew Emmerich Gallery label on verso.