Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Guerrero, Mezcala culture (Balsas culture), ca. 700 to 200 BCE. This is an unusual example of the classic Mezcala form, made not of the usual greenstone but of a brown river cobble, and with more noticeably human-like features that the usual abstract forms. Holes have been drilled at the shoulders, possibly for suspension or to put rings or feathers through. These were carved in the form of symbolic axe heads. We do not know what figures like these represented, but because they are found in tombs, many researchers believe that they have something to do with the dead: their spirits, or a type of death mask. Comes with custom stand. Size: 2.7" W x 5.1" H (6.9 cm x 13 cm)

Provenance: Ex-Peter Arnovick collection, San Francisco, CA acquired before 1980

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#118669

Small losses to lower back, with age wear and extensive root marks.