Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico, Guerrero region, Mezcala culture, ca. 500 to 100 BCE. A superb example of a highly stylized anthropomorphic figure of the classic M-18 type, hand-carved from greenstone with mottled light green and gray inclusions. The minimalist figure is painstakingly formed with a notch to indicate legs, string-cut grooves forming the arms, and stylized facial features. The bulbous head protrudes upwards and bears diagonally slanted eyes, deep nasolabial folds, a sizable triangular nose, and pursed lips above a rounded chin. The surface is delightfully tactile and silky smooth from polishing. The beauty of the stone in addition to the simplified form are quite appealing! Size: 6.75" L x 2.25" W (17.1 cm x 5.7 cm); 7" H (17.8 cm) on included custom stand.

For a similar example please refer to Carlo Gay's "Mezcala Ancient Stone Sculpture from Guerrero Mexico," page 78 plate 64.

Provenance: private New York, USA collection; ex-Lands Beyond Time, New York, USA, before 2010

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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.

#165540

Minor surface abrasions and softening to details. Mineral deposits and earthen encrustations on verso. Intact and very good.