Olmecoid / Proto-Maya Jade Figure

Everett Rassiga, New York

European Private Collection, acquired from the above on January 2, 1973

Thence by descent

Showing a strong Olmec influence and transformational references, this compact figure bears a forceful presence. Carved with deep and deliberate recessed eyes under scrolled brows and an upcurled lip forming the tightly pulled mouth. A small topknot projection on the head references a maize sprout. Both hands with carefully delineated fingers rest on the rounded chest and a finely incised knotted belt wraps the hips with flaps extending down the legs. The addition of the bright red cinnabar remains in the recessed areas, further imbuing the figure with ritual significance. 

For Olmec figures, see Michael D. Coe, et. al., The Olmec World, Ritual and Rulership, Princeton, 1996, p. 161, cat. no. 36, and p. 265, cat. no. 179; see also Elizabeth Kennedy Easby and John F. Scott, Before Cortes: Sculpture of Middle America, New York, 1970, cat. no. 73.