Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Aztec, ca. 1300 to 1500 CE. A sculpture depicting an endearing animal with a wide-eyed expression and hands held to his face as a rattlesnake wraps its way around his lower end (I, too, would be alarmed if such a fierce serpent was encircling me!) Carved from a single block of volcanic stone with finely delineated features and wonderful details such as the stylized zigzag pattern on the snake's skin. The stone shows areas of russet hues and darker areas of lustrous patina from handling over the years. The surface also shows marks from the pecking method used by the sculptor to bring this piece of stone to life. Aztec stone sculpture is relatively rare to come by. Beyond this, who can deny the expressive presence of this piece! Size: 6" L x 5" W x 8" H (15.2 cm x 12.7 cm x 20.3 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Peter Arnovick collection, Los Altos, CA

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#112891

Some roughness on underside. A chip to the tip of his snout and expected surface wear. Else excellent with nice patina.