Pre-Columbian, Oaxaca, Mexico, Zapotec culture, Monte Alban, ca. 100 BCE to 200 CE. A striking figural incensario, featuring a seated human figure wearing an elaborate jaguar-headed headdress, a large necklace, and massive earrings. A hollow, utilitarian column rises behind the figure, to the height of the middle back. The Zapotec, like many Pre-Columbian civilizations, placed clay effigies into burials, often in the forms of urns or vessels. Who were the figures depicted on vessels like this one, and what was their purpose? They may have represented the deities themselves; however, they more likely represented ancestors or shamans impersonating gods, perhaps even spirits. Size: 3.75" W x 6" H (9.5 cm x 15.2 cm)

Provenance: private Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA collection; ex-Minerva Gallery; ex-Benjamin Vega, California, USA, acquired in 2006 to 2007; ex-Gene and Virginia George, brought to the USA from 1961 to 1966

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#155238

Deep scratch on lap looks like a crack - it is not! Otherwise in very nice condition with form and detail well preserved and rich deposits.