Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Nayarit, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. An intimidating pottery warrior fiercely wielding a paddle in his right hand and stick weapons in his left. Wearing a conical helmet and huge, elaborate ear ornaments, the figure presents a powerful stance and a fearsome silhouette with broad shoulders, sturdy, straight legs, and a thick torso. Nice remains of white and black stripes adorn the red surface of the figure. Elite individuals of the Nayarit culture were buried in shaft tombs consisting of a large chamber at the bottom of a deep pit. These shafts were almost always dug beneath a dwelling, probably a family home, and seem to have been used as family mausoleums, housing the remains of many related individuals. These shaft tombs were typically furnished with precious grave goods including ceramic vessels and sculptures like this statue of warrior, with the intention of protecting the deceased. Size: 7.4" W x 17.1" H (18.8 cm x 43.4 cm)

Provenance: private Healy collection, Studio City, California, USA, acquired May 21, 2018; ex-Arte Primitivo, New York, New York, USA, May 21st, 2018, lot 117; ex-private Nevada, USA collection; ex-Dr. David Harner collection, Arkansas, USA, 1950s-1960s, collection #M65.

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#175163

Right foot, arms, and left leg have been professionally repaired with restoration over break lines. Chipping to peripheries of ear ornaments. Expected nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, very nice with liberal remaining pigments and light earthen deposits throughout.