Pre-Columbian, Valley of Mexico, Veracruz or Aztec culture, ca. 1200 to 1532 CE. An amazing and rare terracotta head fragment of an animated coyote with a toothy grin! The head is hand-built with a hollow interior. The ears spiral upwards from the sides, and a deep brow is furrowed over the bulging eyes. The long snout protrudes slightly over the lower jaw, giving the coyote a comical expression; humorously, the cartoon "Wile E. Coyote" comes to mind when looking at this piece! Traces of an orange slip remain on some areas of the face. This coyote head demonstrates the skill of Aztec artists in combining realistic detail with artistic stylization. An exceptional piece! Size: 8.5" L x 5" W x 4.5" H (21.6 cm x 12.7 cm x 11.4 cm); 8" H (20.3 cm) on included custom stand.

The Veracruz and Aztecs had a close relationship with animals and the natural landscape. Many of their cultural metaphors, adages, and omens were based on the behavior of animals, and some animals were known for their supernatural powers. The coyote certainly was among them - powerful Aztec wizards were believed to have the ability to transform into the fiercest beasts, including the coyote. Unlike the jaguar or eagle, however, the coyote also was (and still is) regarded as a trickster figure in Mesoamerican mythology, god of music and dance, called Huehuecoyotl in Nahuatl.

Provenance: private Hidden Valley Lake, California, USA collection, purchased March 18, 2021; ex-Artemis Gallery; ex-private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Hirsch collection, Germany, 1950 to 1970

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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.

#170681

Fragment of a larger piece as shown. Small areas of restoration along lower jaw, nose, and tips of both ears. Repairs are well done and nearly impossible to discern. Traces of pigment on surface and light mineral deposits.