Lot 81
  • 81

Veracruz Stone Hacha of a Monkey Head Classic, Circa 450 - 650 AD

Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • greenstone
  • Height: 8 in (20.3 cm)

Provenance

George Pepper, Los Angeles
Private Collection, United States, acquired from the above prior to 1969
Sotheby's, New York, May 16, 2014, lot 263, consigned by the above
Private Collection, acquired at the above auction

Exhibited

The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore, long term loan, 2002–2010

Literature

Gérald Berjonneau, ‎Emile Deletaille, and ‎Jean-Louis Sonnery, Rediscovered Masterpieces of Mesoamerica, Boulogne, 1985, pl. 87

Condition

Overall excellent condition. Natural slight crack in stone on proper right temple.
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.

Catalogue Note

The fierce appearance of the monkey head depicted in this hacha is enhanced by the sweep of orbital crest, which is both a tail and a phallic reference. For a similar hacha see Whittington, ed., The Sport of Life and Death, 2001, p. 197, pl. 69.