A Maya Stone Head Maya Lowlands, Mesoamerica, Late Classic, c. 600-900 AD A sensitive portrait of a youthful ruler carved from a dense, fine-grained gray stone with a greenish hue. The naturalistic face has almond-shaped eyes, a fine nose, and parted lips. Two curls of hair frame the face on the sides. Rising from the head is a tall slanted headdress with emblems and circular shields, the central and top emblem has been chipped off -- perhaps deliberately, as in ancient Maya times a conquering ruler would remove glyphs or emblems belonging to the conquered. A plaque and plaits of hair on the lower sides of the headdress. In good condition, areas chipped as described, the nose discolored and slightly abraded. Note: This lot is accompanied by the original signed certificate of authenticity dated January 14, 1975, with a photo of the piece attached, by the noted Pre-Columbian Art historian Hasso Von Winning, PhD., consultant in Mesoamerican Archeology, the Southwest Museum, Los Angeles. In typescript: "The beautifully carved face clearly illustrates the Mayan ideals of beauty, showing almond shaped eyes and finely detailed nose and lips, with scroll motif on side of cheeks suggesting hair. The well detailed and deeply carved headdress shows damage on front and fine ancient tool marks in contrast to the carefully finished face. The back of its head was left unfinished. I have inspected this stone head and it is an authentic Pre-Columbian artifact." Height: 13 ½ inches HID03101062020 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved

Heritage Auctions strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Heritage regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Heritage. All lots offered are sold "AS IS"