Pre-Columbian, South America, Ecuador, Valdivian culture, ca. 2300 to 2000 BCE. A skillfully carved green mudstone idol depicting a highly abstract owl of a squat, trapezoidal form. The curious bird's stylized visage is dominated by a pair of semi-circular eyes delineated by incised striations. A brief, concave neck connects the owl's head to its minimalistic body. Two incised curved lines section off both bottom corners just below a horizontal striation, perhaps representing the bird's feet. Boasting a smooth, sandy, beige surface, this intriguing figure was made by Valdivian artisans using string cut technology, wearing down grooves, and shaping corners. Size: 3.4" W x 5.75" H (8.6 cm x 14.6 cm)

The ancient Valdivia culture of Ecuador was initially discovered by archaeologist Emilio Estrada in 1956, fairly recently in historic terms, and it is regarded as one of the oldest cultures of the ancient Americas. Interestingly, this culture still poses a bit of a mystery to scholars as no finite end to this culture has been identified yet; what's more, no sign of a cultural migration has surfaced. Most plausible is that the population somehow dwindled inspiring members of the communities to leave their settlements in search of opportunities elsewhere.

Ancient stone stelae from Ecuador, like this example, are some of the oldest stone sculptures known to exist in the Americas, dating as far back as 3500 BCE. Certainly, each stele is unique; however, they do share a few common characteristics. They are usually carved from a pearly grey or beige stone and are for the most part "blockish" in form. The four most prominent themes of ancient Valdivian artistry include owls like this example, the "serpent/arrow," the sun chart, and the star chart.

Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection; ex-private Houston, Texas, USA, collection, acquired before 2000

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#167343

Repaired from 2 pieces with break line visible and 2 chips reattached along break line on verso. Expected minor chips, nicks, and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent considering porosity of stone with light earthen deposits throughout.