Lot 60, Auction 4/20/2026: 3 Proto-Maya, Jalisco, & Nayarit Pottery Seated Figures

$455.00

In stock

Pre-Columbian, Mesoamerica, Proto-Maya, Nayarit, and Jalisco cultures, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A compact and expressive group of three Pre-Columbian seated pottery figures, each representing a distinct regional tradition and ritual language. The left figure is a Proto-Maya rattle form with a jaguar-like body, combining human and animal features associated with power and transformation; the central figure is a Nayarit Chinesco type, marked by its solid, abstracted geometry and restrained presence; and the third is a nude male Jalisco figure with an erect phallus and stretched lips referencing ceremonial bloodletting, a practice tied to sacrifice, fertility, and spiritual renewal. Together, the group offers a vivid cross-section of West and Mesoamerican figural expression, balancing symbolism, ritual intent, and bold sculptural character. Size of largest (Proto-Maya): 2.5″ L x 2.9″ W x 5.6″ H (6.4 cm x 7.4 cm x 14.2 cm)

Condition: The two West Mexican figures been repaired with some chipping and adhesive along visible break lines. Proto-Maya figure is intact and still functions as a rattle. All have expected surface wear. Good remaining pigments with scattered manganese deposits throughout.

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; crouching figure, K-241: ex-private Los Angeles, California, USA collection; ex-major gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, primarily acquired between 1985 and 2005

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