**First Time At Auction**

Pre-Columbian, Ecuador, Valdivian culture, ca. 3500 to 1500 BCE. A hand-built pottery Venus figurine of feminine form with minimalist features including a set of slit form eyes and eyebrows. Her convex face is accented by a squared, dual toned, coiffure; half of which is highly textured, light brown, with thinly carved lines, while the other half is a smooth textured, walnut tone. The figurine has most of its original patina, ranging from orange-hues in the body to walnut brown in the hair. Two small protrusions are visible at the figures mid-section and can be interpreted as a set of breasts perched above inter-locking arms which rest where her stomach would be. Figures like this are among the earliest representational images of the Americas created close to 4,000 years ago! Size: 1.3" W x 2" H (3.3 cm x 5.1 cm)

Valdivian Figurines have been found in a variety of contexts in both male and female form, though the majority of these figures depict the feminine and have most predominantly been found near food preparation and hearths--activities that have traditionally been associated to women. For this reason, along with the figurines characteristically prominent breasts and voluptuous bodies, it is believed that the figures represent symbols of fertility, though their precise purpose remains a mystery.

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase.

Provenance: ex-private Valencia, California, USA collection acquired around 1985

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#163286

Minor signs of aging, with los as shown. Expected encrustation at point of fragmentation at the very bottom of the piece, though this would not be noticeable without close inspection. Very slight abrasions scattered throughout. Overall excellent condition. TL drill hole beneath base.