Fine Maya Jade Pendant - Lord's Visage

Pre-Columbian, Maya Territories, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. An incredible low relief omphacite jade pectoral pendant hand pecked and polished, etched with a lord's visage with red cinnabar pigment. The ruler stares forward portraying the classic stylized facial features formed via careful string-cut techniques: a headdress frames the head, necklace, earflares, and 2 additional abstract faces to the sides and a serpent head above. As was the custom, the artisan worked with the natural shape of the jade rather than lose any precious surface area- hence the asymmetry. Drilled suspension holes are oriented along the lower edge, enabling this piece to be worn as a pendant or clothing ornament by a person prestige and power - either in life or death as a grave good. Size: 3.2" L x 2.2" W (8.1 cm x 5.6 cm) A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. Item # 179879

Estimate:£1,196.04

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