Pre-Columbian, Central America, Guatemala, Soconusco region, Toltec civilization, 900 to 1200 CE. A truly stunning carved-stone bust depicting a lord. Placing his left hand on his hip while holding up his right, the noble figure presents with a flat chest and a heart-shaped visage displaying a prominent chin, bulbous cheeks, a straight mouth, a pointed nose with a high nasal bridge, and annular eye sockets beneath an arched brow. The ancient statue wears a loin cloth and an elaborate fanned headdress with a towering central column bound by a broad band at its base. A grid pattern decorates the central column of the headdress, perhaps to represent maize, while the band is comprised of three target-like designs enveloped by two slender rows of diagonal striations. Size: 10.125" W x 20.5" H (25.7 cm x 52.1 cm); 23.25" H (59.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: ex-Alfred Stendahl collection, owner of Stendahl Gallery, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired prior to 1990, father has had since the 1950s

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#159532

Fragment of a larger piece. Missing part of nose and proper right hand. Repair in small areas of face, visible on nose. Expected light softening of detail, abraded areas, and nicks/chips, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, very nice with excellent earthen deposits throughout.