Classic Maya Stone Goddess Figure - Jan., 1971 Provenance

About the Item

A superb basalt sculpture of an early Maya Goddess, wearing a splendid and oversize headdress, large earflares, and a beaded necklace with a pendant(surely jade). Her shoulders are covered with a checkered shawl (Quechquemitl), her hands are visible under a plain blouse(Huipil), and her feet are visible under her long skirt. Her nose is artificially built up and extended up to her forehead, displaying a typical Maya attribute of beauty. Her proportionally huge headdress is carved in high relief with zoomorphic scroll designs that reveal abstract deity images. This headdress flares outwards, resembling the superstructure of many Maya Ballgame Palmas. Maya figural sculptures of this type are usually made of clay, are smaller, at 5-7in. high, and are quite common. This piece is basalt, is almost 11in. tall, and is one of the only stone examples I have ever seen. The size and the magnificent headdress give it an imposing presence, and it is also quite dense and heavy for its size. PROVENANCE The original bill of sale is available, dated Jan 12, 1971, from the noted early L.A Collector/Dealer Dr. Milton Birnbaum to the present Owner. Also available is an original Authentication from the noted Pre-Columbian scholar Hasso Von Winning dated April 19, 1971., with his photo of the piece and his blindstamp on it. In addition, this piece was examined and authenticated by Stoetzer Fine Art Services of Miami, Florida. The price is quite fair at $16,500. (keep in mind that the original purchase price on the bill of sale is $6,500; which was equivalent to $49,721 in today’s dollars).

Dimensions:

Height: 10.6 in (26.93 cm)Width: 6.3 in (16.01 cm)Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)

Style:

Pre-Columbian (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Stone,Hand-Carved

Place of Origin:

Mexico

Period:

15th Century and Earlier

Date of Manufacture:

300-900 A.D.

Condition:

Wear consistent with age and use. The piece is in original, as-found condition, with only a small internal stress-crack in the lower leg, and no restoration.

Seller Location:

Culver City, CA

Reference Number:

1stDibs: LU8673235080602

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