** A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this artwork will be donated to the Anthony Quinn Foundation, whose mission is to advocate for the important role arts education plays in personal development and in the overall improvement of social, economic and cultural systems. Learn more at aqfoundation.org **

Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Aztec Empire, ca. 1400 to 1521 CE. A splendid carved-volcanic stone figure depicted kneeling with elbows bent and hands together in a prayer-like position. Gazing forward from bulging, ovoid eyes, the ancient figure displays a naturalistic body and minimalistic visage with a triangular nose, open mouth, and round chin, all capped by a thick headband that extends backward. The figure carries a lengthy object, possibly comprised to plumes, in both hands; the long dangles or feathers fall in front of the figure, covering their body. Size: 4.5" W x 10.3" H (11.4 cm x 26.2 cm)

Aztec stone sculpture is a culmination of centuries of stone carving in Mesoamerica, and, using fragile volcanic stone, these ancient artists were able to create remarkably detailed and poignant artworks. Based on the figure's pose, this is almost certainly a male deity. The Heilbrunn Timeline of Art History substantiates this masculine designation by explaining how deity figures were "customarily shown in frontal view and strictly symmetrical, females are frequently kneeling, while male figures are often sitting with their knees drawn up and their arms crossed upon them."

Provenance: ex-private collection of actor Anthony Quinn and his wife Katherine, Bristol, Rhode Island, USA acquired prior to 2000

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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.

#169133

Repairs to arms and legs. Resurfacing with some modern white pigment to front. Expected nicks, chips, pitting, abrasions, and softening of detail, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with light earthen deposits.