ZAPOTEC figural vessel, Early Classic/Classic , ca. A.D. 250-650

depicting the 'Goddess 13 Serpent ", the cylinder vessel finely modeled with her submissively poised hands on the chest and face with serene expression of aquiline nose, parted lips and almond-shaped eyes, adorned with a boldly woven stiff headdress centering a jaguar head wearing the U-shaped emblem, surrounded by vegetal buds, below a finely incised crosshatched belt.

Pierre Matisse Gallery, New York

Overall very good, finely modeled face, the knob on jaguar head was reglued, two-three small nicks on the rim of the vessel filled in.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

"Goddess 13 Serpent" derived her name from the numeric emblem on the tunic of the prototype urn found in Monte Alban in 1905. As a popular cult fiugre, she appears on ceramic whistles and plaques; her stiff wicker headdress includes buds or other woven ornaments. See Boos (1966: fig. 328, and figs. 329 and 331).