Lot 226, Auction 3/19/2026: Exceptionally Rare Ancient Hopewell Mica Sheet Mask

$2,080.00

In stock

Native American, Midwestern United States, Ohio, Ross County, Hopewell culture, ca. 200 BCE to 500 CE. An exceptionally rare mica sheet carved into a stylized human face mask. The form is flat and thin, following the natural sheet structure of the mica, with pierced eyes and a narrow horizontal mouth. The surface retains areas of natural shimmer and reflective sheen, qualities that were widely regarded as powerful and supernatural within Hopewell belief systems. Mica objects are known to have been used as mirrors in ritual contexts, attached to garments, and shaped into symbolic effigies. Archaeological discoveries document mica sheets and mica objects placed within burials, often associated with individuals of status or ceremonial importance. Size: 5.5″ L x 3.75″ W (14 cm x 9.5 cm); case: 8″ L x 6″ W (20.3 cm x 15.2 cm)

Condition: Flaking and losses to layers. Very delicate and must be handled carefully. Comes in a Riker display case.

Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection

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