A Fine Nayarit Standing Couple, Ixtlán del Rio style, Protoclassic, ca. 100 B.C.-A.D. 250

each with boldly painted body decoration and clothing, distinguished by large lunate eyes and prominent jewelry, the female holding the bowl to her shoulder, the male wielding a fan in the raised arm.

Julius Carlebach Gallery, New York

Acquired from the above,1959

Overall both are in excellent condition, the male PR arm has a break and repair on the elbow.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

This couple is distinguished by the extremely animated facial features, the detailed body designs and clothing, and the elaborate jewelry. The body tattoos on the male figure include clear images of serpents or snakes, while the female's are more abstract; both very likely clan references and totemic associations.  For a similar standing pair in the St. Louis Art Museum, see Parsons (1980:cat. no. 78).