Pre-Columbian, Mexico and northern Central America, Maya Territories, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A fascinating ritualistic implement known as an eccentric flint that was hand knapped into a zoomorphic shape. This piece resembles a highly abstract bat, the wings are outstretched with delicate points. The central body could be the area hafted onto a handle for ritualistic display, however, it is also the perfect size for gripping in one hand, with the spiked wings flaring outwards from the fist. Eccentric flints were ritualistic items with interesting designs that incorporated stylized zoomorphs and geometric forms. They are often found as offerings in caches. This example is quite large and perhaps a tribute to the Maya god Camazotz who was the "death bat" associated with night, death, and human sacrifice. Size: 9.125" L x 3" W (23.2 cm x 7.6 cm)

Display stand shown in photos is for photography purposes only.

Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#164009

Chips and losses to tips of projecting points. Faces are good, with minor wear and abrasions not from knapping process. Large size and rare form.