Pre-Columbian, Central Mexico, Aztec, ca. 1500 CE. Finely carved from a grey basalt stone, a sculpture in the round representing a male Aztec deity sitting upon his rounded buttocks with his hands placed upon upraised knees, wearing a crested headdress upon his long tresses which cascade down his back, and a beaded pectoral with a pendant presenting an expressive visage. This sculpture may represent the god Macuilcoatl (Macuilxochitl or 5 Flower - also the name of a day in the ritual calendar), a youthful male deity associated with life's pleasures - including music, dance, feasting, sexuality, and gambling. It was common practice to offer Macuilcoatl gifts of burning incense prior to a game in hopes of a favorable outcome. It was also believed that reckless indulgence in hedonistic activities would result in disease and misfortune. In manuscript illuminations, this god is oftentimes shown with an ornament embellishing the mouth, typically in the form of a hand. In this example, two hands are rendered in low relief to each side of the deity's face. Macuilxochitl was closely related to another youthful deity named Xochipilli ("Prince of Flowers") who shares similar characteristics. A superb example, boasting strong technique and meaningful iconography. Size: 5.5" x 6" W x 12.25" H (14 cm x 15.2 cm x 31.1 cm)

This sculptural work represents a long Aztec tradition ranging from intimately scaled pieces to colossal, public monuments. The Aztecs carved both fully in the round, as we see in this example, as well as in relief. Unfortunately, the Spaniards destroyed many works, as they disapproved of "heathen" idolatry; however, fortunately, this piece survived. Note that the Aztecs did not aim to represent individuality. Instead they created ageless faces with wide open eyes and mouths to suggest a lifelike appearance, but with grave expressions to represent their ideals of male strength and female beauty. Sculptors would sometimes include animal-like features such as claws and fangs and deity-specific attire such as headdresses, pectorals, and facial ornaments that were immediately recognizable by worshippers.

Provenance: Ex-Private Ventura County, CA collection

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#118311

Intact with expected surface wear.