Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A staggering collection of 39 sizable hand carved greenstone pectoral beads and an ear flare displayed in a modern wood and glass case. The largest bead is hefty piece, tubular and pierced all the way through to both sides, besides these cylindrical and polished shapes there are 3 incised with shallow concentric lines and deeper grooves, the ear spool also incised. The stones are incredible mottled hues of green with red and white striations throughout. While likely used as fine adornments such as pectorals, these could have been used as sniffing tube or snuff tube for inhaling hallucinogenic substances via the nose. Greenstones and jade were associated with the Maize God, symbolizing his eternal youth and fertility. Size of largest bead: 10.5" L x 2" W (26.7 cm x 5.1 cm); case: 24" L x 3.25" W x 24" H (61 cm x 8.3 cm x 61 cm)

Green colored stones were prized for their symbolic qualities of life and fertility, worn as status symbols by the elite as well as serving as ritualistic implements and offerings for burial. To make these pectoral beads, it was necessary to first carve out small blocks, then polish the exterior by friction with sand or other stones to create the cylindrical shape. The perforation was made by a conical stone drill bit and bow. For an example of a massive necklace part of the funerary dress and internment of a Maya lord, please see the National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City, jade death mask of Maya king Kinich Janaab Pakal.

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#173319

Chips and abrasions throughout. Several perforations and cavities in beads. Surfaces on most are heavily cleaned and polished in modern times, however some retain mineral and earthen deposits within recessed areas. Displayed in a modern wood and glass case.