Olmec Stone Figure Middle Preclassic, ca. 900-600 B.C.

the youthful seated figure resembling the physiognomy of dwarf, with long legs bent and fragmentary arms resting on the knees, the slender torso curved in a relaxed posture with clavicles shown, his uplifted head showing a slightly smiling expression of full parted lips, dimpled cheeks and deeply sunken eyes, wearing solely a snug helmet with raised central crest, the ears pierced; in gray basalt. 

American private collection
Sotheby's, New York, November 20, 1989, lot 140, consigned by the above
California private collection, acquired from the above
Sotheby's, New York, November 23, 1998, lot 93, consigned by the above

As shown missing forearms, otherwise excellent condition.
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.

There is a fairly broad range of figures associated with dwarfs in the Olmec style, attesting to the special status of these unusual beings. Dwarfs were believed to hold magical shamanic powers, invoking the Underworld and traversing the natural and supernatural world.  This figure shows a particularly gentle quality as if in a fully realized trance state. For figures of more agitated form, compare to the small jade Olmec figure in the exhibition catalogue of the Robert and Lisa Sainsbury Collection, University of East Anglia (1978, Fig. 568); also Coe et al. (1995:216-219).