{"product_id":"pre-columbian-olmec-serpentine-head-fragment","title":"Pre-Columbian Olmec Serpentine head fragment","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePre-Columbian Olmec Serpentine Head Fragment – Mexico\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMiddle Formative Period, ca. 1200–400 BCE\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA finely carved serpentine head fragment originating from the Olmec culture, the earliest major civilization of Mesoamerica. The piece, once part of a larger sculptural figure, presents a refined and compact visage with characteristic Olmec features: almond-shaped eyes, a broad, softly modeled nose, and full lips rendered with subtle naturalism. The cranial form rises into a stylized, tapering contour, possibly indicating a headdress or coiffure element.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe lower portion of the fragment has been intentionally reworked in antiquity and drilled, a practice documented in Olmec lapidary traditions, where fragments of earlier sculptures were repurposed for suspension or secondary ritual use. This modification adds an additional layer of historical significance, reflecting the object’s continued life and cultural relevance beyond its original form.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe surface displays extensive root etching, mineral accretions, and areas of calcification, consistent with prolonged burial. The stone retains a rich, mottled patina, enhancing the sculptural depth and visual presence of the piece.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMounted on a custom metal display.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHeight:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 2 1\/8 in.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Estate of Douglas Rhodenbaugh, Austin, Texas\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Minerva Gallery","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53087238750505,"sku":null,"price":2000.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0710\/2762\/2185\/files\/8C65ADE1-A560-4E8B-9375-D1476467B921.jpg?v=1777691802","url":"https:\/\/minerva-gallery.com\/es\/products\/pre-columbian-olmec-serpentine-head-fragment","provider":"Minerva Gallery","version":"1.0","type":"link"}