**Originally Listed At $1200**

Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Mayan Territories, Maya, Classic Period, ca. 250 to 950 CE. A stunning necklace comprised of twenty-six perforated discoid jade beads, in colors ranging from dark-gray and dark-green to apple-green and light sage, with an anthropomorphic jade statuette as the central element. The figure has a classic Mayan presentation, including the large nose and mouth, perforated ears, and puffy face, but exhibits Chontal and Olmecoid characteristics as well. Accents of red cinnabar have been rubbed into the recessed areas of the pale, mint-green jade, providing a fabulous bichrome appearance. A pair of modern gold-filled chains hold the circular beads, one extending from each of the figure's ears, with a T-bar on one end and a fastening loop on the other. A striking example of wearable art comprised of ancient jade beads and amulet! Amethyst stone for photography display purposes only. Size (necklace): 18.5" L (47 cm); size (figural pendant): 1.875" H (4.8 cm);total weight: 63.9 grams.

Jade was revered by the Maya not only for its beauty, but also because it had spiritual power - it was believed to be the embodiment of the wind and the "breath" that formed the Maya soul. In addition, scholars argue that its color was associated with water and vegetation. While the Maya used jade to create impressive jewelry, we also know that they placed jade beads in the mouths of the dead, perhaps as a means of extending the circle of life. Furthermore, many scholars have argued that the demand for jade contributed to the rise of long distance trading networks as well as the rise of urban centers in ancient Mesoamerica.

Provenance: private Denver, Colorado, USA collection; ex-private Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA collection

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#132222

Strung in modern times and wearable as shown. Expected age-commensurate surface wear, small chips to discoid beads and figural pendant, with some light roughness to beads, otherwise intact and excellent. Light earthen deposits within recessed areas. Remnants of original red cinnabar visible on figure.