**Originally Listed At $1500**

Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, probably Central Lowlands, Maya, Classic to Late Classic Period, ca. 300 to 900 CE. An incredibly rare set of 2 abstract and minimalist anthropomorphic figures knapped from slender obsidian panels. One figure presents with wide hips and nubbin arms held out from the shoulders, perhaps depicting a female, while the other, taller figure has splayed feet, arms held against the waist, and wider shoulders, perhaps suggesting a male. Size of largest: 1.9" W x 6.4" H (4.8 cm x 16.3 cm); (Riker box): 16.125" L x 12.125" W (41 cm x 30.8 cm)

Obsidian is a naturally glassy and lustrous stone, and when polished, the surface can be quite reflective. Obsidian - "iztli" to them - fascinated the ancient Mesoamericans; the Aztecs even had a god, Tezcatlipoca, who was the Lord of the Smoking Obsidian Mirror. In a world without metal, this sharp quality was especially important for ceremonies of ritual bloodletting and human sacrifice. The difficult-to-obtain material came from volcanic sources in the Sierra Madre of Mexico and in Guatemala, was traded hundreds of miles to meet the demand for sharp cutting tools and ritual objects, and then was struck using a deer antler or small hammer stones to form blades and forms.

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

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#173372

Repair to one arm of shorter figure, with light adhesive residue along break lines; taller figure is intact and excellent. Both figures have minor nicks not commensurate with the knapping process, otherwise in excellent condition. Great preservation to figural forms.