Lot 38
  • 38

Tlatilco Maskette Early Preclassic, ca. 1200-900 B.C.

Estimate
6,000 - 9,000 USD
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Description

  • clay
  • Height: 4 1/8 in (10.5 cm)
of characteristic deeply convex form with oval pierced eyes under sharp browns, the dramatic wide open mouth with the tongue protruding, and small ears pierced, areas highlighted by red pigment.

Provenance

Arthur N. Seiff, New York, an important collector of Pre-Columbian art beginning in 1956
Sotheby's New York, May 16, 1989, lot 79, consigned by the estate of the above

Exhibited

New York, The Jaguar's Children: Pre-Classic Central Mexico, The Museum of Primitive Art, February 17-May 5, 1965

Literature

Michael D. Coe,  The Jaguar's Children: Pre-Classic Central Mexico, The Museum of Primitive Art, New York, 1965, Fig. 168

Condition

Excellent condition overall; appears intact.
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.

Catalogue Note

Preclassic masks from Central Mexico occur at Las Bocas, Tlatilco and Tlapacoya. They are perhaps the earliest versions of one of the most ubiquitous ceremonial objects of the Pre-Columbian world. These small yet expressive masks were meant to be worn over a portion of the face, as seen on numerous Preclassic figurines, most likely by dancer impersonators; for other examples, see Coe (1965: figs. 161-169).