Pre-Columbian, Central Mexico, Teotihuacan, ca. 4th to 7th century CE. A wonderful and striking carved volcanic stone brazier with the visage of Huehueteotl, the Teotihuacan "Old God of Fire." Recessed eyes, and a protruding, flared nose detail the upper half of the face, while the wrinkled cheeks and an opened, gap-toothed mouth provide for a fierce expression. The deep semi-circular facial wrinkles denote the deity's advanced age, hence the "old god" denotation. The head is flanked by massive earspools, and the flat top slightly overhangs the face. The igneous stone is a fitting material for this fire god, and the porous surface retains traces of red pigments indicating this impressive piece was once brightly painted. Size: 9.5" W x 6" H (24.1 cm x 15.2 cm)
Though primarily attributed as a creation of the Teotihuacan peoples, the story of Huehueteotl predates this and most other Pre-Columbian cultures from ancient Central Mexico. The origins of Huehueteotl might be unknown, but the finely executed elegance of this stone example is quite evident! The use of these fascinating stone objects is not fully understood, but they seem to have been personal braziers used for burning ritual incense or hot coals. At one time there was a receptacle bowl for holding the burning material on the top of this example as the headdress. For a similar example of a more complete form please see the Saint Louis Art Museum object number: 206:1979.
Please note the Sotheby's New York May 14th 2010 Auction N08638, lot 47, for another similar example with the hammer price $17,500.
Provenance: private Saint Petersburg, Florida, USA collection; ex-Dr. Lester Knorr and Dr. Jeanne Boardman Knorr collection, Norfolk, Virginia, USA, acquired in Mexico City around 1963 and 1964 and imported to the USA by 1965
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#159596
Condition
Fragment of a larger piece as shown. Active chipping and flaking of peripheries. Chips and abrasions to earspools. Losses to top of head. Facial features are well preserved. Light mineral deposits.