Pre-Columbian Olmec Serpentine Maskette
$15,000.00 USD
Shipping and applicable taxes are calculated at checkout.
Enquire about this workAbout the work
Olmec Serpentine Maskette
Mexico | Olmec | Ca. 1000–600 BC
An exceptional Olmec maskette carved from grayish-green serpentine, displaying the powerful and highly recognizable facial conventions of Olmec stone sculpture. The face is sensitively modeled with narrow almond-shaped eyes, a broad nose with drilled nostrils, and parted lips revealing the upper teeth. Drilled details at the corners and center of the mouth further emphasize the expressive features.
A biconically drilled suspension hole is present along the upper ridge, with two additional attachment holes at the ears, indicating that the maskette was intended to be suspended or attached. The stone retains an attractive ancient surface and patina.
Provenance: Ex. George Pepper Collection, acquired between 1951–1969; subsequently by inheritance to Jeanette Pepper Bello.
Exhibited: Bowers Museum, Santa Ana, California, Pre-Columbian Art of Mexico and Central America, September 22–December 1, 1974, catalogue no. 51.
Dimensions: Approximately 3 3/4 × 3 inches.
A particularly appealing Olmec maskette distinguished by its strong sculptural presence, early American collection history, and documented museum exhibition provenance.