Classic Olmec Pottery Head – TL Tested- Lot 104, Auction 8/16/2018
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Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Olmec, ca. 1150 to 500 BCE. An evocative terracotta head from an larger figure. The head has distinct child-like features characteristic of Olmec figures including jowly “babyface” cheeks, a large-lipped, pouting mouth, and almond-shaped eyes with pierced pupils. The head is flattened, which is probably indicative of the artificial cranial deformation practiced by the Olmec culture. A feather or leaf is carved in relief atop the figure’s head. The figure is plaintive and startingly lifelike. Size: 1.85″ W x 2.5″ H (4.7 cm x 6.4 cm); 2.8″ H (7.1 cm) on included custom stand.
This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.
Condition: Head is a fragment from a larger figure, with small chips and losses around the neck, ears, and on the lips. Light deposits on surface. Old collection number handwritten on the back.
Provenance: private collection of Dr. Evan Maurer, former Curator of the Minneapolis Art Institute (USA)
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 purchases.
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