Coclé pottery is known for its intricate designs, skillful modeling, and vibrant polychrome paintings. Some common themes in Coclé pottery include human figures, animals, geometric patterns, and mythological motifs. These vessels were often created for both practical and ceremonial purposes.
These artifacts showcase the artistic and technical achievements of the Coclé people. The vessels vary in size and shape, some being small bowls or plates, while others are more giant jars or urns. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in the artwork on these vessels reflect the cultural and religious significance of the artifacts.
Cocle pottery has been discovered in various archaeological sites in Panama, providing insights into the daily life, beliefs, and artistic expressions of the Cocle civilization. The artifacts contribute to our understanding of the region’s rich cultural history before the arrival of Christopher Columbus and the subsequent European colonization of the Americas.
The imagery on this vessel depicts an early-stage shaman transforming into a saurian creature within the basin. Long exaggerated claws with serrated stingray barbs projecting from head and tail.
This gorgeous Coclé Macaracas pedestal dish originates from ancient Panama ca. 800 – 1000 A.D. It is distinctive as its intricate design boasts a stylized blending of human and animal features, which adds a spiritual and symbolic dimension to the artwork.
The use of bold black lines and vibrant red and blue colors, arranged in symmetrical patterns over cream/white, contributes to its uniqueness. The vessel bears a conical foot and a pedestal base surmounted by a shallow bowl. Four triangular cutouts are on the sides of the stemmed base. Reassembled from several large sections.
Measures 6.5 inches in diameter.
Provenance: Ex Carraher collection, Knoxville, TN. Acquired in the 1970s.
Price $2,450 – Domestic Delivery Included
Maya “Bahlam” Jaguar Head Inca Kero Aztec Eagle Warrior Maskette Nariño Annular-Based Cup Teotihuacan – Xolalpan Mayan Stone Skull c. 650 A.D.
The pre-Columbian Mayan stone skull is a rare and highly significant artifact from the Maya culture of Mesoamerica. The Maya civilization was renowned for its art, architecture, mathematics, and astronomy, and the symbolic importance of skulls in their culture cannot be overstated.
The Maya viewed death as a transition to another realm, not an end. Skulls were often incorporated into rituals, art, and offerings, symbolizing the soul’s journey beyond death. They held significant meaning for the Maya, representing death, rebirth, and transformation.
This particular stone skull is a stunning example of Maya craftsmanship. It was skillfully carved from stone, and its surface exudes a primal power. The eyes are open-worked and are integral to the large cavity underneath. The cheekbones are exaggerated, and the entire skull shows remnants of a red pigment treatment, likely cinnabar, which would have created a dramatic theatrical effect when exposed to fire and heat. This would magically produce a shiny liquid mercury skull.
Some areas of the skull appear darkened or turned black due to the high intensity of this heat. Scholars refer to this substance as Metacinnabar. The overall patina on this artifact is simply beautiful and in excellent condition, making it a true gem among Maya artifacts.
Measuring 6 inches in length, this stone skull is believed to have been created between 450 and 650 A.D. in Guatemala. It is a valuable and fascinating piece of Maya history that continues to captivate scholars and collectors alike.
Ex- Marty Matz. Acquired 1970’s; J. Alexander, Watsonville, CA
Price $22,500 – Domestic Delivery Included
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Chancay Weaver’s BasketA large Chancay weaver’s basket made of woven rush. Personal assortment of tools which include numerous painted wooden spindles, metal and clay whorls, several small bundles of colorful yarn with a piece of textile, cotton, a cactus thorn comb, small pottery vessel, several bone implements and a Spondylus shell. Excellent condition. Lima region, Peru 1200 A.D. – 1400 A.D.
Measures 13.5″/34.29 cm L, 5”/12.7 cm W, 3.25”/8.89 cm H.
Ex J. Espinosa, Canada. Imported from Brazil in early 1980s.
The Valdivian culture, an ancient civilization that thrived along the coastal regions of present-day Ecuador, is renowned for its unique stone carvings, notably the enigmatic stone owl imagery. These artifacts, dating back to around 3500 BCE to 1800 BCE, offer a fascinating glimpse into the artistic and spiritual dimensions of the Valdivian people.
Archaeologists and historians believe these stone owl carvings held cultural and ceremonial importance within the Valdivian society. Owls, commonly associated with wisdom and mystery in various cultures worldwide, likely played a symbolic role in the spiritual beliefs of the Valdivian people. The precise meaning of the owl imagery remains a subject of scholarly debate, contributing to the allure and mystery surrounding Valdivian artifacts.
Unearthed at archaeological sites along the Ecuadorian coast, these stone owls highlight the Valdivian civilization’s connection to its natural surroundings and its capacity for artistic expression. The artifacts provide valuable insights into this ancient society’s cultural practices, religious beliefs, and artistic sensibilities.
In summary, the Valdivian stone owl imagery represents a distinctive facet of pre-Columbian art and spirituality. Through these artifacts, we understand the rich cultural tapestry woven by the Valdivian people and their enduring legacy in the annals of South American archaeology.
This is a beautifully large-sized Valdivian limestone plaque. Bas-relief with deeply incised carvings. Calcium Carbonate incrustations throughout. Chebe Region, Ecuador. Phase 8. Fine Condition. It measures over 11″ in height.
It is mounted on a custom metal stand.
Provenance: G. Landazuri Estate collection, New York, acquired in the 1980s
Price $3,850 – Domestic Delivery Included
This item may become featured here in the Native American Art Magazine
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases