A Tall Veracruz Figural Whistle of a Dignitary, Early Classic, ca. A.D. 250-450,

standing on long legs with the left hand forward, in elaborate ceremonial attire of short cape with thick embroidered tasseled bands, the layered waistband with loincloth and ceremonial knot, and adorned with large earrings and tall blackened headdress embellished with large Tlaloc-style white disks.  



 

Jay C. Leff Collection ( Sotheby Parke Bernet, May 31, 1975, lot 334, illus.)

 

Carnegie Institute, 1959, no. 449

Brooklyn Museum, 1966, no. 389

Overall very good, face, jewelry, clothing basically intact, the remains of white pigment also appear strong and original. Has repairs on the top black projecting headdress ,repairs on right buttocks and back of neck , lower third of the long loincloth flap appears restored. Some repairs on the tubular support in back .
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.

There are a large and diverse number of musical instruments from ancient Veracruz. Many are flutes, whistles and obvious instruments while there are numerous objects with masterfully built-in musical components. This figure is one of  the few very large figural whistles, notable for the smooth kaolin white pigment once entirely covering the body. It has a relaxed downturned mouth of the Olmec style seen on early Remojadas figures.