Pre-Columbian, Ecuador, Jamacoaque, ca. 500 CE. A striking terracotta seated shaman figure dressed in ceremonial garments including a magnificent headdress appliqued with clay filets that resemble bird feathers and a 'beaded' trim, shield-shaped ear ornaments, a pronounced spherical nose ring, a large, angular lip labret, a multi-strand 'beaded' pectoral, and a grand mantle decorated with the same feather appliques seen on the headdress, all showing ample pigment remains of green and red hues. Jamacoaque sculptors must have worked painstakingly to create their molds; just look at this figure's veristic facial features - impressive to say the least. Given his elaborate dress and accoutrements, the figure most likely represents a shaman participating in a ceremonial ritual. The Jama Coaque culture is named for two towns in the Manabi Province, in coastal central Ecuador. Although their pottery is similar to nearby cultures, it is often more richly clothed and elaborately adorned; this probably reflects actual traditions. The articles that this figure wears may signify an allegiance to a certain group of people or a particular rank or role in the society; this would have been clear to members of the Jama Coaque, but is a mystery to us today. Size: 3.375" W x 5" H (8.6 cm x 12.7 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Peter Arnovock collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#117370

Minor nicks and losses to filets on headdress and mantle. Otherwise normal surface wear commensurate with age. Nice pigment remains.