An Izapa Tubular Jade Bead Chiapas, Mexico, circa 300 BC- 300 AD Carved from semi-translucent apple green jade, this exquisite tubular bead is elaborately carved in form of serpent heads with large teeth and vegetation symbols at both ends and a band with the "mat" motif in the middle signifying royal power and authority. This bead is bi-conically drilled through the entire length for suspension. Izapa, in particular, is known for beads such as this example and bottles in stone, and they often depict stylized serpent or reptilian forms. In excellent condition; remains of red pigment in the grooves, a small sticker label on the underside. Provenance: A Private Collection, New York, NY, acquired in 1989 Merrin Gallery, New York, NY Joyce Strauss, Denver, CO, 1960-1970 Exhibited: Chalchituitls: Pre-Columbian Jades and Other Precious Stones. A traveling exhibition to the Denver Art Museum, August 15 - October 11, 1987; and the National Museum of Women in the Arts, Washington, D.C., October 27, 1987 - January 5, 1988. Length: 4 ¼ inches HID03101062020 © 2023 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

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