A Veracruz Hacha...

Description

A Veracruz Hacha
Gulf Coast, Mexico, c. 500 - 850 AD

A deeply carved, dense stone sculpture in the form of a human skull, rendered with remarkable naturalism; a tenon for insertion on the back. The eye sockets are filled with black pigment, identified as chapopote (bitumen), emphasizing the depth and intensity of the gaze. A carved glyph within a medallion adorns the forehead, signifying a calendrical or ceremonial event or place. The sculpture exhibits fine detailing of cranial and facial features, including the jawline, nasal aperture, and dentition.

Condition is very good overall, with expected age-related wear: minor chips are present in the proper right eye socket, along the jawbone, and the left side of the nasal area. The piece is presented on a custom metal stand for display.

A compelling example of Mesoamerican sculptural artistry, combining both technical skill and ritual iconography.

Provenance:
Merrin Gallery, New York, NY, purchased in the 1970s

Height: 7 inches

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