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LOT 2339
Pre-Columbian Veracruz Smiling Terracotta Figure
CIRCA 800-1200 A.D.
8 5/8 in. (364 grams, 22 cm).
A classic, smiling hollow-formed standing nude apart from a loincloth and a collar with amulets; broad brow-band with low-relief ornament; holes to reverse; repaired. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom an old Pre-Columbian collection.
Believed to be ex Christie's, London, 17 October 1996, no.72A (part).
From the private collection of a North West London gentleman.
For a range of classic religious figures from classic Veracruz, see Favaro, A. The World that Wasn't There, 5 Continents, Milan, 2019.
FootnotesThese figures known as smiling figures from the Veracruz are associated with religious ceremonies and were often purposefully broken prior to burial.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
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Pre-Columbian, Teotihuacan and Native American Terracotta Figure Collection
Circa 600-1200 A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £169
Including human and animal masks displaying classic Teotihuacan features including conical figural terminal and other items, some on wooden display stands. 434 grams total, 28-66 mm
From an old Pre-Columbian collection. One with Christie's label, London, 17 October 1996, no.72A(part). From the private collection of a North West London gentleman. -
Pre-Columbian Terracotta Figural Group
Circa 800-1200 A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £169
Comprising: hollow-formed Veracruz ceramic head with rumbler mounted on a wooden stand with old collector's label 'Pre-Columbian Head of an Idol of Tag Totonoca Culture (A.D.800-1200) Smiling Head is generally found around Merida Mexico'; disembodied head with broad triangular headdress on tripod; tubular jar with applied facial detailing. 401 grams total, 9.4-13.2 cm including stand
From an old Pre-Columbian collection. One with Christie's label, London, 17 October 1996, no.72A(part). From the private collection of a North West London gentleman. -
Pre-Columbian Moche Ceramic Stirrup Vessel of a Dignitary
2nd-5th century A.D.Estimate: £2,000 - 3,000 (+bp*)
Opening Bid: £1,000
A classic example of a seated dignitary figure modelled with one hand resting on his knee, the other held to his breast, wearing a cloak and headdress; pierced through the nostrils. 596 grams, 21 cm high
Private U.K. family collection formed in the early 1970s. The property of Mr and Mrs P.R. of East Sussex. Thence by descent to family members. Private collection, UK. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.13175-248965.
Moche sculpture often celebrates dignitaries in positions of power, evidenced by posture and fine clothing.
