Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Maya, Early to Late Classic Period, ca. 250 to 900 CE. A set of 3 beautiful celts bearing sturdy forms and sharpened blade edges, all hand-carved from mottled omphacite jade. The first celt is the most petite and features a gentle rectangular profile, a rounded butt end, and a very sharp blade edge. The medium-sized celt bears more of a trapezoidal profile with a tapered butt as well as incredibly smooth surfaces along the blade edge indicative of use. The largest is carved from mottled forest green jade and exhibits a teardrop-form body with gently beveled surfaces on either side of the narrow handle. Size of largest: 4.75" L x 1.75" W (12.1 cm x 4.4 cm)

Provenance: private Lumberton, Texas, USA collection; ex-Heritage Auctions, Auction 6056, lot 56124

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#169632

Small chip to blade edge of largest celt. Each piece has minor abrasions across both faces, with light pitting in some areas, otherwise intact and very good. Great surface smoothness throughout.