This vessel is a Caddo culture Long-necked Belcher engraved bottle. It is thin-walled with a globular body separated by an angular flat bottom. The long neck is flared outward at the top. This piece is rich Brown with a burnished surface. Decorated with wide engraved swirls with applied red ocher.
The bottle measures just over 7 inches tall, making it a substantial example of Caddo craftsmanship. The vessel originates from Lafayette County, Arkansas, dating back to approximately 1500 – 1700 A.D., during the later period of the Caddo civilization known for their advanced pottery techniques. The Caddo people were skilled artisans, and this bottle showcases their ability to create complex forms and intricate designs, reflecting the high level of technical and artistic development achieved by the culture during this time.
The long neck, flaring outward at the top, is a distinctive feature of this type of vessel, often associated with ceremonial or ritual use. The engraved swirls, emphasized by the red ocher, add a dynamic and visually striking element to the bottle, demonstrating the Caddo’s expertise in combining form and decoration to produce objects of beauty and cultural significance.
The bottle’s condition is noteworthy. The neck was restored, a common practice in preserving ancient pottery. The restorer carefully executed the restoration, ensuring the vessel remained in excellent condition overall. The integrity of the body and the clarity of the engraved designs remain intact, allowing for an appreciation of the bottle’s original aesthetic and functional qualities.
This Belcher engraved bottle represents an essential artifact from the Caddo culture, providing insight into the ceremonial practices and artistic achievements of one of the most sophisticated Native American cultures in the southeastern United States. Its historical and cultural significance and well-preserved state make it a valuable addition to any collection of Native American artifacts or pre-Columbian art.
Price $1,425
Chancay Female Cuchimilco
A large Chancay Cuchimilco Female Figure is a notable piece of pre-Columbian art. This creation is of hollowed ceramic earthenware, and the body form and iron oxide paint are nice and uniform. Adorned with stylized dotted triangular shapes and step patterns, it provides guidance to its respected clan and adds to its distinct appearance. The holes on top of the head within the solid painted headband held feathered plumes (penochos) to distinguish status within a social group. These figures represent individuals and were usually found in tombs of the nobility to ward off evil spirits.
Interestingly, some scholars and enthusiasts refer to these figures as “star gazers” due to their upward-facing gaze. This characteristic posture has led to various interpretations, suggesting that these figures might have had a spiritual or astronomical significance, possibly as guardians watching the celestial movements.
This figure measures 23.25″ (59 cm) tall and originates from Huaral province, Lima region, Peru, dating back to 1000-1475 AD. The hand and pinky have been reconstructed, and there is a very minor touch-up of paint. Otherwise, it is in excellent condition, making it a valuable addition to any collection of ancient artifacts.
The Chancay culture, known for its distinctive pottery and textiles, flourished on the central coast of Peru. Their ceramic figures, often found in tombs, reflect a rich cultural heritage and provide insight into their beliefs and social structure. This Cuchimilco Female Figure is a remarkable example of their artistry and craftsmanship, showcasing the intricate details and symbolic elements of Chancay ceramics.
Compare similar examples in: Ancestors of the Incas, The Lost Civilizations of Peru by Kauffmann-Doig.
Price $4,850
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Chancay Cradleboard Litter
A finely made Chancay Cradleboard litter – kupulwe. Laid upon a bed of reed slats, a solid clay figure is nicely wrapped using a cotton textile blanket, secured with string and carved spool-type finals on wood beams. Coarse human hair is braided and intertwined between cross-members to assemble the platform. A substantial amount of personal care has been given in its construction.
A large original piece was reattached to the left side of the face and legs. Minor loss to tip of nose, otherwise overall excellent condition. Lima region, Peru 900-1400 AD. – Extremely Rare
Measures 12.5″/31,75cm in height un-mounted. 13.25”/33,65cm with custom metal stand.
Private California Estate Collection.
Price $3,885
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Quimbaya Female Retablo
A large, heavy, solid, unburnished buff slab figure from the Quimbaya culture, Caldas complex. The rarer seated female in the state of trance with extended forward down arms and legs. Adorned with incised bands painted in white representing jewelry. Rectangular-shaped head with a faint tattooed face. The eyes and mouth are slit. The nose is largely molded with a piercing hole. The majority of slab figures have survived without paint, but little remain on some, such as the black bands across her face and white bands seen on this figure.
Five unique piercing holes running vertically down atop her head meeting up with horizontal ones on her forehead. Used to hold feathered plums to distinguish status within a social group. Both left leg and arm reattached otherwise in excellent condition.
Measures 10.5″/26.67 cm tall by 7.5”/19.05 cm wide. Colombia 1000-1400 AD.
Provenance: Ex-Private Florida Collection
Price $1,485
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Tiwanaku Stone Celt with Pumas
An excellent formed Tiwanaku limestone celt. The axe head has a carved double-stylized pumas finial with perforated loop-type bodies. Half-open type hafting shaft on the reverse with rounded blade edge. Substantial scattered dendrites deposit on the surface. One puma is reattached, otherwise intact. Altiplano region, Peru/Bolivia Ca. 500 – 1000 A.D. Custom stand.
Measures: 4.75”/12.06 cm H. 2.5”/6.35 cm W. 6.5”/16.51 cm with custom metal base.
Provenance: Ex-Splendors of the World Gallery, LA., CA; Private Florida Collection
Price $1,750
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Jamacoaque Mask ca. 300 B.C. – 500 A.D.
A rare naturalistic ceramic Jamacoaque mask from ancient Ecuador. They are seldom seen in this form. The vast amounts of Jama masks consist of a state of grotesque transformation. Displayed and worn during a ceremonial setting or possibly a death mask as the eyes are perforated. Buff with red pigment (red ochre) visible. This elite/high priest wears the traditional large ornament under the nose. Also, these masks are commonly seen being worn on other fine ancient figurines.
This is an excellent example that is rarely seen.
Manabi region, Ecuador. 300 BC – 500 AD.
Measures 4.25″ H. 4.5″ W.
NOTE: Pictured with stand and cup for illustration purposes (not included). A stand can be ordered at no charge but must be requested after purchase. 5-10 day production time needed.
Price $550
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Remojadas “Sonriente” Torso Figurine
An aesthetically appealing Remojadas “Sonriente” torso. Their joyous-looking facial expressions are not clear to scholars. Some speculate their grin may represent a drug-induced euphoric state just before sacrifice. Hollow ceramic body. He wears an open garment with a loin cloth. Headdress, ear ornament, and beaded necklace. Fragmented figure with no restoration. Old mounting adhesive on back. South Central Veracruz, Mexico ca. 600 – 900 A.D.
This is a scarce, uniquely sized piece. The majority of these hollowed body figures are produced much larger. It is seldom made at this size.
Measures 6.25″ in height. Approx. 8″ on wooden stand (included).
An impressive piece that will display nicely in your collection.
Price $550
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Tiwanaku Stone Idol c. 1050 A.D.
A fine Tiwanaku sandstone idol. The body is stout with deeply incised quadratic face and body features. Hands are held at the center and high. Wears a full ceremonial garb with a banded headdress. Altiplano region, Lake Titicaca. Ca. 650 to 1050 A.D. Measures 6”/15.6 cm in height, 4”/10.2 cm in width, 3.75”/9.52 cm in length. – Rare
Condition: Sediment deposit within crevices with minor surface erosion. Old inventory No. 153 on the forehead. Fine condition.
Provenance: Ex-K. Downs, Kentucky collection; Private Florida Collection
Price $2,450
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Teotihuacan Sitting Figure
This solid molded Teotihuacan sitting figurine, originating from Xolapan, Mexico, exemplifies the artistry and symbolism of the Teotihuacan civilization during the Classic period, around 300 to 650 A.D. The figure’s distinct triangular face, with its horizontal eye slits, shaped nose, and mouth, is characteristic of Teotihuacan portraiture, reflecting the unique aesthetic values of the culture.
The figure wears a large, wide-band headdress, a significant element in Teotihuacan iconography often associated with status or religious symbolism. The headdress features a central applique that retains traces of red pigment, a color frequently used in Teotihuacan art to convey power, vitality, or sacred significance. This red pigmentation also appears on the ear discs, which are large and round, further emphasizing the figure’s importance. The attire is detailed, with the shoulder and waist garments carefully modeled to enhance the figure’s presence.
The surface of the figure retains ample remains of whitewash, a common feature in Teotihuacan sculptures. This whitewash likely enhanced the figure’s visual impact, possibly in ceremonial or ritual contexts. The interplay of the white and red pigments underscores the Teotihuacan’s sophisticated use of color in their art, where such hues were decorative and laden with meaning.
While the head and left foot have been reattached, with visible break lines, the figure remains largely unrestored, preserving its historical integrity. This minimal restoration allows the figure to retain much of its original character, offering collectors a piece that is authentic and evocative of its ancient origins. The absence of the right thumb adds to the narrative of the figure’s journey through time, making it a testament to Teotihuacan art’s durability and enduring appeal.
Although small at 2.75 inches in height, this figure holds significant cultural value. Its compact size does not detract from its detailed craftsmanship and the symbolic weight it carries. As an artifact from one of Mesoamerica’s most influential civilizations, this Teotihuacan sitting figure provides a rare and tangible connection to the past, offering insight into ancient Mexico’s artistic traditions and societal structures.
It measures 2.75″ in Height.
Mexico, ca. 300 – 650 A.D.
Comes on an all-wood block stand.
Price $1,250
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Mezcala Guerrero Hunchback Stone Pendant
Mezcala Guerrero Stone Hunchback/Warrior Figurine Pendant. Carved in high relief. Linear incising for all features. Hands come up to upper chest from sides. Humpbacked. Legs semi bent. There is a vertical hole in the back of the head for suspension—pale green with small deposits. There is old label residue on the back. H. 2” tall. No chips and in choice condition. Mexico, Guerrero region, Mezcala, ca. 500 to 100 BC.
Note: The last image is a magnified view of the perforation hole from the top of the head.
Precolumbian Mezcala semiabstract stone faces represent intricately carved artifacts from the Mezcala culture, distinguished by a distinctive artistic idiom. Characterized by a fusion of realism and creative interpretation, these stone figures intricately capture facial features in a stylized manner. Emblematic of the Mezcala civilization’s ritualistic milieu, these artifacts are a testament to this ancient Mesoamerican society’s cultural and artistic proclivities, whose cultural zenith extended from approximately 700 B.C. to 200 A.D.
Price – Sold
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases