**Originally Listed At $1500**

Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A hand-carved omphacite jade celt of gratuitous form bearing mottled shades of brown and dark gray. The petaloid form has a sturdy butt end for gripping and a sizable blade edge with an impressively sharp edge. The celt is a tapered hand tool of a highly stylized ritual form with ceremonial and funerary purposes. Since not all celts were created as implements of ritual sacrifice, scholars posit that many were intended to be buried as votive offerings with rulers or individuals of high wealth and social standing. Size: 10" L x 4" W (25.4 cm x 10.2 cm); 11.75" H (29.8 cm) on included custom stand.

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

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#175008

Infill in scattered areas with polished surfaces to not detract from the overall presentation. Minor abrasions and nicks commensurate with age, otherwise intact and excellent with no structural repairs. Great size and surface smoothness.