Olmec Blackware Vessel in the Form of a Bird - PF.2380, Origin: Las Bocas, Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 6.125" (15.6cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian,  More »

Olmec Blackware Vessel in the Form of a Bird - PF.2380, Origin: Las Bocas, Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 6.125" (15.6cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmec, Medium: Terracotta. Birds and particularly waterfowl were considered one of the most significant animals to the ancient Olmec. The association with migration and versatility on both land and water may have been one of the reasons for this reverence. Nowhere is this veneration more touchingly expressed than in this beautiful Olmec vessel. Here, the softly rounded body of the bird gives way to an elegant neck and head that form the vessel's spout. A gently curved opening at the top of the vessel dips down to create a tuft of feathers atop the bird's delicate head. Stylized wings, artistically sculpted, wrap around the bird's body while a small upturned tail completes the perfect balance of proportion. If we listen closely while gazing at this evocative work of art, we can hear the ancient call of these migratory birds, haunting in their age-old ability to capture our hearts and souls.   « Less

Olmecoid Sculpture of a Seated Figure - PF.2585, Origin: Morelos, Mexico, Circa: 1150 BC to 550 BC, Dimensions: 8" (20.3cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmecoid,  More »

Olmecoid Sculpture of a Seated Figure - PF.2585, Origin: Morelos, Mexico, Circa: 1150 BC to 550 BC, Dimensions: 8" (20.3cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmecoid, Medium: Terracotta. The state of Morelos is located in the Mexican highlands, south of the valley of Mexico. Warm and even subtropical during the middle pre- classic period, this region may well have proved attractive to the famous Olmec people who lived to the southeast. The Olmec were a fighting people, as evidenced by their many monuments depicting battles. Whether they actually invaded Morelos is unclear, however, what is known for certain is that their presence was made in this region of central Mexico. This fact is attested to by the distinctive ceramics that appear from Morelos during this time period. Here, we see one such remarkable piece, presented in the form of a seated figure. The distinguishing Olmec features include the somewhat puffy, infantile features of the figure as well as the shape of the head, with its pierced slanted eyes and downward turned mouth. Seated, with hands resting on outstretched legs, and a dramatic vent hole positioned at the navel, this ceramic figure exudes a spirited energy that is characteristic of Olmec-type ceramics. A mastery of form combines with an imaginative portrayal to give us a work of art that is a dramatic manifestation of the interaction of cultures, whether they be friend or foe.   « Less

Tlatilco Sculpture of a Standing Woman - PF.2587, Origin: Tlatilco, Mexico, Circa: 1000 BC to 800 BC, Dimensions: 10" (25.4cm) high x 5.375" (13.7cm) wide, Collection:  More »

Tlatilco Sculpture of a Standing Woman - PF.2587, Origin: Tlatilco, Mexico, Circa: 1000 BC to 800 BC, Dimensions: 10" (25.4cm) high x 5.375" (13.7cm) wide, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Tlatilco, Medium: Terracotta. The ancient site of Tlantilco in the valley of Mexico came to light in 1936, during excavations carried out by brick workers digging for clay. While removing the clay in order to make bricks, these workmen discovered a large number of burials, in which were placed delicately modeled figurines, such as this remarkable example. Later excavations in the area, performed by archaeologists, revealed that these burials formed a portion of a very large village, Tlatilco, located west of the Great Lake on a small stream, and settled by about 1200 B.C. The figurines that appear in these ancient burials reveal that they are the most aesthetically satisfying in Ancient Mexico. Here we experience the potter's mastery of this versatile medium in the form of a hollow-core, young standing female, with characteristic stocky outstretched legs and abbreviated arms. Her dramatically elongated head is crowned with two horns, artistically serving as vessel spouts. With slanted, almond-shaped eyes, the figure stares outward, casting her ancient spell upon us. A necklace adorns her body, accentuating her spirited beauty and sparking our curiosity about the fascinating culture that produced this extraordinary work of ceramic art.   « Less

Olmecoid Sculpture of a Standing Woman with Headdress - PF.2936, Origin: Morelos, Mexico, Circa: 1100 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 11.75" (29.8cm) high x 4.875" (12.4cm) wide,  More »

Olmecoid Sculpture of a Standing Woman with Headdress - PF.2936, Origin: Morelos, Mexico, Circa: 1100 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 11.75" (29.8cm) high x 4.875" (12.4cm) wide, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmecoid, Medium: Terracotta. This fired solid clay figure was used as a ritual offering in a funerary practice. Her pre-classic features such as the triangular, flat face, Asiatic eyes, large ears, and teeth are rendered with bold incision marks. Her large and gentle features reveal a personable and honest disposition. Most of the details and decorations on the figure are marked with incision lines, for example the headdress, ears, and eyes. The left side of the body is enhanced with line and dot pattern incision. This pattern suggests that decorating skin with tattoo, paint, or scarification was a common practice in Morelos society. The clay figure also shows the importance of fertility-life and regeneration. The fertility. Not only was the charming clay figure used for a ritual but it also embodies the fertility concept, which was cherished by many cultures throughout the ages.   « Less

Olmecoid Sculpture of a Standing Woman with Headdress - PF.2937, Origin: Morelos, Mexico, Circa: 1100 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 10.75" (27.3cm) high x 5.5" (14.0cm) wide,  More »

Olmecoid Sculpture of a Standing Woman with Headdress - PF.2937, Origin: Morelos, Mexico, Circa: 1100 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 10.75" (27.3cm) high x 5.5" (14.0cm) wide, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmecoid, Medium: Terracotta.   « Less

Olmec Stone Sculpture of a Seated Figure - PF.3183, Origin: Gulf Coast of Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 100 BC, Dimensions: 5.5" (14.0cm) high, Catalogue: V15, Collection:  More »

Olmec Stone Sculpture of a Seated Figure - PF.3183, Origin: Gulf Coast of Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 100 BC, Dimensions: 5.5" (14.0cm) high, Catalogue: V15, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmec, Medium: Stone.   « Less

Olmec Stone Pendant of a Jaguar's Head - PF.3358, Origin: Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 2.125" (5.4cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmec, Medium:  More »

Olmec Stone Pendant of a Jaguar's Head - PF.3358, Origin: Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 2.125" (5.4cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmec, Medium: Stone. The Olmec civilization is the most Ancient Mexican civilization, often considered as the "mother civilization" of the new world. The Olmecs were carvers of stone, from gigantic colossal heads, stelae, altars, jade celts, figurines, to pendants. Many of the Olmec sculptures, such as this stone jaguar pendant, carried special meanings. Believing in the legend of were-jaguar baby, they carved numerous figures, which depict jaguar features. This precious pendant is skillfully carved and polished to achieve a glow that accentuates beautiful green hue of the stone. Each facial feature of the jaguar is distinctly carved, with its large mouth displaying the sharp fangs. Its furrowed brows and deep-set eyes not only create a dramatic expression but they also seem to pierce through anything that stands in front of it. Such magnificent sculpture was perhaps worn by an important individual, a chieftain or a ritual performer. The jaguar was one of the most revered animals and was worshipped as a god in Ancient Meso-America. As jaguars roamed and ruled the wild jungle, Meso-Americans recognized the prowess of jaguars, attributing magical and divine power to them. As we look into the pendant, we can almost feel the gentle hands of the artist who so lovingly carved the beautiful, intricate sculpture that was worn as a precious jewel.   « Less

Olmec Stone Sculpture of a Phallus - PF.3388, Origin: Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 6" (15.2cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmec, Medium: Stone.  More »

Olmec Stone Sculpture of a Phallus - PF.3388, Origin: Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 6" (15.2cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmec, Medium: Stone. The Olmec civilization is the most Ancient Mexican civilization, often considered as the "Mother Civilization" of the New World. The Olmecs were carvers of stone, from the gigantic colossal heads, stelae, altars, jade Celts, figurines, to pendants. Many of Olmec sculptures, such as this stone phallic sculpture, had ritual purposes. As other ancient cultures did, the Olmecs also cherished the concept of fertility and life. Their reverence to life and birth are evidently shown, for example, in their were- jaguar legend and depiction of jaguar babies and infant images. Although the phallic sculpture's overt sexual quality may seem exhibitionistic in our culture, it possessed entirely different significance in Ancient Meso-America. Considering the Meso- American religious context that valued regeneration, this sculpture may symbolize the regeneration of life. Used as a ritualistic offering, it most likely served as a sign of fertility and birth. Perhaps the Olmecs realized the vulnerability of humans in nature, thus learning to value virility, health, and fertility, which assure the continuation of their people. Neither shunned nor tabooed, this artistic expression poignantly declares the importance of regeneration.   « Less

Olmec Stone Sculpture of a Man Carrying a Child on His Back - PF.3742, Origin: Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 5.75" (14.6cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian,  More »

Olmec Stone Sculpture of a Man Carrying a Child on His Back - PF.3742, Origin: Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 5.75" (14.6cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Olmec, Medium: Stone. Polished to a shine, this beautiful sculpture epitomizes the art of the Olmec culture. Created out of a dark green stone, his expression is grimacing. The anatomy shows that the artist had a basic understanding, yet kept the figure simple. The arms are outstretched at the elbow, yet they contain nothing. The features on the face are carefully detailed yet the ears are gently molded onto the face. Smooth to the touch, we realize that it still contains the beauty and elegance it carried at its first creation. Time has not touched this piece, proving that the beauty that was created and did not wear it down, but preserved it for future generations to see disarmed even time.   « Less

Olmec Stone Grinding Instrument - PF.4382, Origin: Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 5" (12.7cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian Art, Style: Olmec, Medium: Stone.  More »

Olmec Stone Grinding Instrument - PF.4382, Origin: Mexico, Circa: 900 BC to 500 BC, Dimensions: 5" (12.7cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian Art, Style: Olmec, Medium: Stone. Through the centuries and throughout human development, many new ideas come and go, and what remains are remnants and ideas of what was. The imagery left is a puzzle that needs to be solved, understanding the passion, dedication and love that was involved. This particular piece is missing its lower compliment, but nevertheless, contains its own mystery and story. The imagery on this stone implement is a combination of nature and man. The speckled stone adds 3- dimensionality to the relief design as well as movement, causing the object to come alive. Three specific objects can be seen. In the center are the head and wings of a bird. On either side are the images of a jaguar, yet the heads are human in appearance. The reverse side is smooth to the touch, contrasting with the upper portion. All three images, human, jaguar and bird are important symbols in ancient Mexico, revealing what was essential to the beliefs and well being of the whole society. The opening in the center allows the piece to be attached to the lower portion, therefore being a major part of its function. Combining all of these items we begin to see the achievements involved and learn to appreciate and respect art and the mystery behind it.   « Less