Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Guerrero region, Mezcala culture, ca. 500 to 200 BCE. A fine abstract anthropomorphic axe god figure of a rotund form, hand-carved from mottled greenstone with light and dark inclusions. The figure squats on folded legs, that are delineated by a small cleft between the legs, and his arms are folded across his protruding stomach. The bulbous head has a jutting chin with a triangular nose, and a string-cut mouth, all beneath a hemispherical forehead. These facial features are abstract, and only give an idea of a human form, which is characteristic of axe god effigies. Ancient Mezcala artisans were adept at reducing the human form down to minimal, elegant shapes via the meticulous string-cut technique, and this statue exemplifies their desire for this stylized form. Size: 4.5" W x 7" H (11.4 cm x 17.8 cm)

Provenance: ex-private collection of the late Father Bader, University of St. Thomas, Houston, Texas, USA; exhibited in the University of St. Thomas Art Gallery, acquired prior to 2000

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.

#154271

Light mineral deposits across surface. Minor abrasions and nicks. Pretty natural stone inclusions.