An Engaging Olmec Seated Figure...

Description

An Engaging Olmec Seated Figure
Mesoamerica, Early Pre-Classic Period, c. 1200-900 BC

Solid buffware with burnished cream slip on the body, the textured short pants and the crown and back of the head are without slip, traces of cinnabar and black paint. The figures sits cross legged with the proper right hand resting on the knee, and the left arm held down with the hand touching the ground. The posture and face are that of an older person, with naturalistic older male breasts. The head is tilted slightly up and to the right; the face has a welcoming expression, with a slightly smiling mouth and narrowed eyes. In very good intact condition, scattered black manganese deposits, minor loss to the slip on right side of chin, black and red paints faded.
Note: This is a mirror image of lot 70332 in this sale.

Published:
Feuchtwanger, Franz, Ceramica Olmeca, Editorial Patria, Mexico, D.F., 1989, Frontispiece and pages 130-131, fig. 58.

Provenance:
A Private Collection, New York, NY
Merrin Gallery, New York, NY
A Private Collection, Spain

Height: 5 inches

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