Pre-Columbian, Gulf Coast Mexico, Vera Cruz, ca. 550 to 950 CE. An expressive hand-built terracotta figure elaborately decorated with a grand headdress adorned with black bitumen, large round earspools, and a belted skirt, presenting an animated pose with outstretched arms and a beautiful visage comprised of bitumen highlighted almond-shaped eyes, a pronounced nose, and pursed closed lips upon an almost triangular shaped face. Interestingly, the figure is of a style similar to that of a traditional "coast watcher" only standing rather than sitting. Archaeologists believe that these figures probably represented individuals, with their personalized ear plugs, headdresses, etc. According to indigenous legend, such figures were said to have been placed along the shoreline to watch for invaders; hence the name "coast watcher." Size: 5.875" W x 6.625" H (14.9 cm x 16.8 cm)

Provenance: Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, acquired prior to 1970.

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.

#122905

Small losses to skirt and hands. Back 'foot' reattached with visible break lines. Minor wear and scattered mineral deposits on surface.