Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Mayan, ca. 550 to 950 CE. Hand carved, extensively incised with details, and hand polished - an apple green jadeite pendant depicting an owl or possibly an owl warrior figure given the incised limbs and armor. The owl was widely symbolic in the Pre-Columbian world. Owls were considered shamanic, guiding humans on their journeys to other worlds, the divine, and death. The Popol Vuh describes owls as messengers of Xibalba, the sinister underworld. In addition, for some cultures, an anthropomorphic owl represented a warrior or war god. Also common were naturalistic depictions of barn owls. Size: 1.75" W x 2.5" H (4.4 cm x 6.4 cm); 4.375" H (11.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection

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#132580

Perforated through the ears. Inventory label on verso. Minor surface wear with scratches commensurate with age.