Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Olmec culture, ca. 1200 to 600 BCE. A rare Olmec seated figure intended for ritualistic purposes, hand-sculpted from lustrous, black stone to resemble a shaman in the midst of transformation. His elongated head - a characteristic of the Olmec and sign of high status - displays a minimalist visage with simplistic features impressively formed from only petite string-cut slits. The inward pose of this fascinating figure - legs crossed and hands together at chest - indicates a moment of meditation and transcendence. Size: 1.6" W x 3.6" H (4.1 cm x 9.1 cm)

The Olmec are the ancestors of all Mesoamerican civilizations, and their artistic style, practiced in the tropical lowlands of south central Mexico and diffused outward through extensive trade networks that stretched into northern Mexico and central America, was inspirational for those who came after. The Olmec style became synonymous with elite status in the highlands. They created enormous stone heads, probably the first thing many of us think of when we remember the Olmec, but they also made more easily transportable figures like this one.

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

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#175024

Chip to nose and some minor nicks, scratches, and abrasions in areas, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and impressively preserved. Smooth, lustrous surface.