290. Valley of Mexico, c. 300 – 100 BC. A lot of 3 legs from tripod vessels with figural decorations. Lengths from 6” to 7”. From the Hasso Von Winning collection. $100/3

291. West Mexico, Colima, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A wonderful and rare “Phallic Figure” in red-brown slip of a seated and hunchback male with large and erect penis being held with his right hand. His left hand rests on his left knee. He wears interesting crested helmet with small point in center and flaps above his ears; back of head has typically large and flared spout. He also wears a wide necklace. Piece is weathered throughout but all original and intact. Worthy of a serious collector and strong bid. H: 12.5". Cp. Sculptures of Ancient West Mexico, The Proctor Stafford Collection, see figure 115, pg. 80. Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $3000

292. West Mexico, Colima, Coahuayana type, c. 250 BC - 250 AD. A tall and flat “gingerbread” ceramic figure. Nicely mounted on custom wood stands. He has large nose with small slit eyes and mouth. Incised designs on pointed legs and wide and tall headdress (slight losses to top of headdress). H: 10.5". $350

293. West Mexico, Colima, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. An "Incensario" in terracotta with traces of pigment. Two grotesques, back -to-back, a handle above a square depression between them. Scarce. Ht. 8 ½”.  $400 

294. West Mexico, Colima, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. An attractive "gingerbread" figure with arms folded on chest, quite well done with traces of black decoration on its back (a belt?). Ht. 7 ¼”.    $250

295. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC - 250 AD. A standing red slip “pregnant” female. She stands in rigid posture with large breasts and protruding belly. Her small arms and hands extend downwards. She has large and wide legs. Choice! H: 9.5". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $500

296. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC - 250 AD. A “gingerbread” type crème slip ceramic of a standing pregnant woman. In mottled shades of crème, brown and red, she stands with her arms resting above her bulbous and protruding belly. She wears double earrings and single nose ring. Traces of original polychrome. Some repair to right leg. H: 8.5". Nice! Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $400

297. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A seated red slip figure of a man with his thin arms and hands resting on his knees. He exhibits a medical deformity with vertebrae from spine exposed. He wears a tall headband with round medallion in center and also has a small open purse resting on his left chest that is supported with a thin strap worn over his left shoulder and back. Much of original black polychrome design is still evident on face and on lower torso. Repaired at bottom with head reattached. All original. Still nice and attractive! H: 10". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $500

298. West Mexico, Nayarit (?), c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A very rare and impressive solid brown ware ceramic figure of a squatting “emaciated man”. His skinny legs are bent upwards with his knees against his chest above, which rest his skinny arms and hands. His forehead is scarified with his mouth slightly agape revealing his tongue. Eyes are wide open. H: 11". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $3000

299. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC - 250 AD. A small pale red ware figure of a seated female. She appears to be a “hunchback”. Her body is bulbous with her small looped arms resting on her hips. She wears tall headdress and earrings. Nice patina. H: 7.5". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $350

300. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A seated crème slip ceramic of a rotund and obese man. Both of his knees are bent upright with his arms folded across. He wears 3 large hoop earrings on each ear. Upper portion of forehead is burnished in a shade of dark gray. Nice surfaces and patina. H: 5.5". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $500

301. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A small and finely made dark crème slip seated “hunchback” male. His knees are bent upwards with his hand resting upon them. He wears elaborate headdress that has triple banding with small projection at back. He wears and arm band at each elbow and large earrings. Genitalia exposed. Much of original paint still evident. H: 5.5". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $400

302. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A small and finely made crème slip seated “hunchback” male. His knees are bent upwards with his hand resting upon them. Much of original orange polychrome still remains around neck and on left side of body. Mouth agape revealing his teeth. In excellent condition. H: 4.75". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $400

303. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A small and finely made yellow and crème slip seated “hunchback” male. His knees are bent upwards with his hand resting upon them. He has large ears and wears headdress. Much of original orange mottled polychrome still remain. In excellent condition. H: 4.5". Some possible restoration on lower left arm. Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $350

304. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A small and finely made seated crème slip male figure. His knees are bent upwards with his hand resting upon them. His legs and lower torso, back of his head and around his neck all painted with dark orange polychrome. He wears double armbands on both of his upper arms. Choice. H: 5.5". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $300

305. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A heavy red slip figure of a seated man. His legs are crossed and he holds a musical instrument similar to a “rasp” with both hands. He wears thick headband. Lips are scarified and mouth is puckered. Several braids of hair on back of head. Some repair and restoration evident throughout. H: 9". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $500

306. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A kneeling female figure in terracotta with crème. The crème accents : bands across forehead, on ears, around nose-rings, eyes & mouth, as a multi-stranded pectoral/necklace, on right arm, and solidly from the waist to mid-thigh. The piece is in wonderful condition. H: 9 ¼”. $500 

307. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A pair of figurines, the smaller, seated and with traces of pigment, has a cape over his right shoulder. small chips on the left foot and the tip of the nose do not subtract from its charm. The second, larger item is standing on four "legs", hands on hips with a lot of crème and brown-black decoration over its face and entire body. Couple repairs to the back "feet", and some losses to the left side of the head. A piece worthy of restoration--a "sleeper"!! H: 4 1/3” & 6 ½”. $250 

308. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A crème slip-covered seated drummer with a tall, conical hat. chip to nose tip and restoration to arms and a little on the base(which also has an inked number). H: 5 ½”, along with a Vera Cruz whistle(works!) modeled as a seated, cross-legged figure wearing a necklace and ear spools with hands on knees. H: 6”. TP-39 $400 

309. West Mexico, Nayarit, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A seated figure with a round body, red pigment accents.. The "hair" is solidly colored, and there are stripes on the arms and body. In fact, the stripes make the body look like a melon! Very charming!! H: 6”. Also included is a large whistle, perhaps Costa Rican, of an anthropomorphic crested creature, crested head-covering with back flippers(?), and arms in front against body. considerable traces of linear patterns, and it sets on four little "feet".  $ 400 

310. West Mexico, Jalisco, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A lovely crème slip vessel depicting a “hunchback” man who supports a large bowl with serrated rim upon his shoulders. His hands rest on his knees; bold facial features. H: 6", diameter of bowl about 6". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $500

311. West Mexico, Jalisco, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A small red slip seated male “hunchback” figure. His arms are folded back with his hands on his shoulders. A large open spout flares from atop his back. He also wears large ear spools. Face and belly are in crème color. Choice! H: 4.75". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $600

312. Mexico, Jalisco, c. 200 BC – 350 AD. A lovely zoomorphic jar with a finely detailed head protruding on one side and a simple loop handle on the other. Found along with a globular jar, 3 ½” diameter. Both have the typical highly burnished red slip, with good mineral deposits. In excellent condition. $250

313. West Mexico, Jalisco, c. 250 BC- 250 AD. A large and wonderful bare breasted seated woman. In crème slip she holds her left hand against her neck while her right hand clutches her right breast. Facial area around her mouth in red paint while eyes and smooth headdress are painted in black. H: 15.5". An outstanding example! $3000

314. West Mexico, Jalisco, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A tan-colored terracotta figure of a mother nursing her child. Some soil still adheres to this charming piece. Ht. 5 ¾”. $300 

315. West Mexico, Jalisco, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A wonderful crème slip figure of a pregnant woman in “birthing” posture. She lies on her back and is supported upwards with her arms on the ground. Her extended belly and legs spread as she prepares her for the delivery of her next offspring. Choice condition. H: 7.5", L: 6.5". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $600

316. West Mexico, Jalisco, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A fabulous red slip squatting “hunchback” male figure. His long arms are right behind his legs and assist him in his squat. Yellow-crème colored face with exquisite detail; mouth agape reveals his teeth, ears are pierced. A wonderful piece! H: 6". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $1000

317. West Mexico, Jalisco, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A fantastic small red slip “hunchback” male figure. He is seated with his left hand supporting his head to aide a probable headache. His left arm is outstretched, fingers missing as is left foot. Choice facial detail in crème colored polychrome reveals his mouth agape with teeth exposed. H: 7". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $850

318. West Mexico, Jalisco, c. 250 BC – 250 AD. A very attractive red slip seated woman with “hunchback”, bulbous body and raised spinal column. She sits with gazing facial expression; her left arm is bent under her chin with her left hand resting on her right arm, which rests on her raised and bent right knee. Face and her headdress are detailed in gray polychrome. Ears are holed revealing hollow head and inside. H: 7". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $750

319. Mexico, Tlatilco, c. 1200 – 500 BC. A "gingerbread" figure of a female holding a jug in her left arm. Some old repairs, otherwise attractive. H: 8”.  $250 

320. Mexico, 20 th century pueblo pot, Huastecan ceramic bowl with floral motif in brown paint on crème slip. The form of this Huastecan pottery vessel has changed little through hundreds of years. It has a concave bottom so that the pots can easily be balanced and carried on one's head for transportation of water and foods. H: 8", D: 6.5". Choice. $250

321. Mexico, 20 th century pueblo pot, Huastecan(?) a very large and bulbous ceramic water jug with two loop handles. Brown slip with linear highlights in red-brown paint. Small and flared opening at top (some rim chipping and repair). H: 15.5". $300

322. Mexico, 20 th century pueblo pot, Huastecan(?), a red ware pot of cylindrical shape with flare opening. Entire body of pot and neck with thin horizontal crème colored lines. H: 10", D: 3.75". $150

323. Mexican Dance Mask. A modern animal dance mask, Gulf crab with human face, cut from tin and painted in rich colors, 12" high, and 14" wide. From Vera Cruz region, 1940’s. Extremely colorful and decorative.       $250

324. Mexican Dance Mask. A modern animal dance mask, mythical bug with human face, cut from tin and painted in rich colors, 15" high, 12" wide. From Tabasco region, 1940’s.        $250

325. Mexican Dance Mask. A modern animal dance mask, rabbit face in full 180 degree portrait, cut from tin and painted in rich colors, 6" diameter. Inside of mask with burlap surfaces. From Mexico City region, 1920’s. Extremely colorful and decorative.        $250

326. Mexican Dance Mask. A modern animal dance mask, carved from wood portraying human face and butterfly nose, symbolizing resurrection and life after death, painted in rich colors, 12" high, 8" wide, 14" deep. From Puerto Vallerta region, 1950’s.       $500

327. Mexico, Yucatan, Mayan, c. 400 – 600 AD. A beautiful stone knife and brilliantly executed with large blade and firm handle. Triangulated front surface, flat back. Beautiful gray and cream colored striated stone in perfect condition. H: 8”; W: 3”. Custom made stand. From an old San Francisco Collection. $350

328. Belize, Maya, c. 500 – 800 AD. This exceptional ceremonial uni-face flint dagger is 9 ¾” long. It is made from nicely striated gray and black flint, has sharp edges and nice mineral deposits. An excellent example. $500

329. Guatemala, Maya, 500 – 800 AD. This fine seated figure from the Tiquisate area is 2 ¾” high and is adorned with a headdress, large ear ornaments and necklace. Nice mineral deposits. $250

330. Guatemala, Maya, 500 – 800 AD. This unusual Underworld figure from the Pacific slope region is 3 1/8” tall and is posed with the hands behind the head. The creature has a reptilian head, with large eyes bulging from the sockets. Nice example. $250

331. Honduras, Maya, c. 550 – 900 AD. This exceptional polychrome cylinder is 8" high, 6-3/4" in diameter and comes from the Southern Maya cultural area. It depicts five ornate figures, portrayed standing, bowing or kneeling, all presenting offerings. Their headdresses are incredibly detailed and show various deity forms hiding within. Also depicted is the Underworld Monkey deity and the Underwater World fish deity. The rim band is unusually complex and the interior is decorated with serpents crawling towards the base. A bit of pitting and a restored area, but overall an incredible example of Maya art. $4500

332. Honduras, Maya, c. 600 – 800 AD. This fine polychrome jar has a 5-3/4" diameter and is a superb example of a toad vessel, Bufo Marinus to be specific, with its appliquéd head protruding from the vessel, legs molded in relief and the body decorated with painted jaguar spots. Toxins from the glands of this amphibian were used to produce a hallucinogenic substance for ritualistic ingestion as part of the "way" ceremony. The shaman would enter a cave, believed to be the entrance to the Underworld of Xibalba and ingest hallucinogenic substances in order to make contact with the spirits and ancestors. It is highly likely that these were the vessels used to contain these substances. The rim band features three seated chiefs and each side has an unusual Glyph. In excellent condition, with good dendrites. See Schmidt’s Maya, page 647, for similar examples. $800

333. Honduras, Maya, c. 600 – 800 AD. This excellent polychrome bowl from the Ulua Valley is 8-3/4” in diameter and features a dancer wearing a jaguar costume. The interior rim is decorated with Underworld creatures and inverted pyramids, while the exterior is painted with a wide variety of colorful step-fret and other characteristic designs. Even the underside is painted on this one. In excellent condition, with nice mineral deposits. $675

334. El Salvador, Maya, ca. 600 – 800 AD. This beautiful polychrome bowl has a 5-1/4" diameter and its primary motif consists of two Underworld "Swimmer" figures, which depict the Hero Twins of Maya mythology, Hunahpu and Xbalanque, on their journey through Xibalba, the Maya Underworld. The two figures are painted in good detail against a cream background, with a well-executed band of Copador style glyphs encircling rim. A lovely example with strong paint, good deposits and root marks. See Schmidt’s,Maya,page 646, for similar example from the National Museum of Anthropology in El Salvador. $700

335. El Salvador, Maya, ca. 600 – 800 AD. This fine polychrome olla with loop handles is 6-3/4” in diameter and is decorated with two bands, consisting of jaguar head glyphs and date symbols. It is in excellent condition, with nice mineral deposits and root marks. $600

336. Costa Rica, Guanacaste, c.1100 – 1250 AD. A nice jade pendant. This amulet has a puzzling anthropomorphic carving in wonderful soft green and light brown hues. A wonderful patina of age surrounds this humanoid pendant, which is depicted with sunken eyes and lovely overall detail to face and body. The crossed leg and arm position may indicate deceased individual and probable ancestor worship. L: 3”. Found in perfect condition with no loss or chipping. $800

337. Costa Rica, Nicoya, Guanacaste, c. 800 – 1200 AD. A pair of colorful ceramic “ocarinas” or whistles. One in the shape of a turtle (doesn’t play due to tail losses), the second as a bird. Both about 3" long. Nice. $250/2

338. Costa Rica, Nicoya, Guanacaste, c. 800 – 1200 AD. A pair of colorful ceramic “ocarinas” or whistles. One in the shape of a turtle (tail restored), the second as a gecko. Both about 3.5" long. Nice. $250/2

339. Costa Rica, Nicoya, Guanacaste(?), c. 800 – 1200 AD. A ceramic phallus. In crème colored slip, phallus is decorated on one side with incised linear designs. Some chipping otherwise in fine condition. H: 7.5". $450

340. Costa Rica, Nicoya, Guanacaste, c. 800-1200 AD. A lot of 3 small ceramic figurines. First 2 pieces are “ocarinas”. One in brown slip in the shape of a stylized fish, L: 3". Second of unusual style with forepart of human with legs contorted behind head to form the blowhole, H: 2". Third piece a tripod vessel with 2 bird heads, H: 3". $250/3

341. Costa Rica, Nicoya, Guanacaste, c. 800-1200 AD. A very colorful pair of whistles. One is fish-like, the other a human head with ear-spools and tattoos. Crème, red and black pigments abound. couple chips on the fish fins don't remove its charm. heights: the fish, c. 3 ¾”, and the head c. 4 ½”. $300 

342. Costa Rica, Jicote, c. 1200 - 1500 AD.  This fine globular “olla” is 4-1/2" high, 5" in diameter and is painted with cream slip, which is enhanced with four protruding nodes highlighted in black and red.  In excellent condition, with nice mineral deposits.  $275

343. Costa Rica, Nicoya, c.1100 – 1250 AD. A heavy dagger executed dark green stone. The anthropomorphic dagger is carved with the traditional head or probably skull seated atop with interesting sunken facial features and a deathly feel to it. L: 10”. Found in excellent condition with only chipped tipped but in excellent overall condition. $1000

344. Costa Rica, c. 1000 – 1500 AD. This fine globular polychrome “olla” is 5" high, 5" in diameter and is painted with red slip, which is enhanced with decorative designs painted in cream, as well as black designs executed in negative resist style.  In excellent condition, with nice mineral deposits.  $350

345. Costa Rica, c. 1000 – 1500 AD. This fine polychrome “olla” is 7-3/4" high and 6" in diameter. The upper half is painted with cream slip, which is decorated with geometric designs and the bottom half is covered with highly burnished red slip.  In excellent condition, with nice mineral deposits.  $350

346. Costa Rica, c. 1000 – 1500 AD. A fine Diquis tripod jar with frog/toad adornos, 2-1/4" diameter.  Most likely used to store poison from the Poison Arrow Frog or extract from the Bufo Marinus toad, which is a strong hallucinogenic.  Along with a 2” diameter, buff clay votive jar in excellent condition. $200

347. Panama, Cocle, c. 750 – 850 AD. A round polychrome Cocle frutera pedestal dish, executed in the “Conte” style, depicting both avian, probably a toucan, and distinct insect characteristics. It is a wonderful and attractive vessel with vivid red and purple colors, intact, save for a repair to one of the legs. H: 4 ¼”; Dia: 9”. For similar examples see Armand Labbe, Guardians of the life stream. $600

348. Panama, Cocle, c. 600 – 900 AD. A large Cocle polychrome vessel effigy. This single stirrup vessel portrays a seated anthropomorphic male with some animal attributes, arms are painted and appear to end into feline paws, which fold over chest. Starry eyes may indeed indicate Shamanic hallucinogenic trance. This is a wonderful colorful example of Cocle art is executed in the “Conte” Style. H: 13”. It is found in excellent condition with nice surface deposits. Left leg was professionally re-attached otherwise it is intact. $1,500.

349. Panama, Cocle, ca 750 – 850 AD. A seated effigy of a woman. This hollow effigy portrays a heavily tattooed female in a curious position, her arms holding one knee and side of head. Well executed in Montijo Transitional phase, with red and black pigment over cream; it measures 4.5” in height,. Some surface wear and losses to nose and tip of foot but not detracting from presence. $300

350. Panama, Cocle, c. 750- 850 AD. An open flared vase depicting a turtle, which acts as a base. Design on black resist pigment over cream points to the Montijo Transitional phase. This vase measures about 6” in height; it has nice deposits and is intact bar minor chips consistent with age. $400

351. Panama, Veraguas, c.1100 – 1400 AD. A lot of 3 gold nose rings. These small nose rings show nice surface wear. 1). W: 11mm, 3.42g; 2). W: 11mm, 2.63g; 3). W: 10mm, 3.23g. $225/3

352. Dominican Republic, Taino, c. 1200- 1500 AD. A large “olla” executed in natural light brown. The bowl measures approximately 10” at its widest point by 6” in height, with nice incised geometric pattern decoration surrounds vessel. Two charming frog “adornos” at each side of the bowl serve as handles. Found in very good condition. $800

353. Venezuela, Timoto Cuica, c. 1000-1400 AD. A nice "bat wing" stone pendant measuring approximately 2 ½” in height by 7 ½” in length, for similar examples refer: "Venezuelan Archaeology" by Irving Rouse and Jose Cruzent, Fig 29B. Found in fair condition with some chips to edges but with no repairs evident. The Timoto Cuica culture developed in the Venezuelan sierra around the town of modern day Trujillo. Also included is an interesting utilitarian set of co-joined cups. Costa Rican/Nicoya, c. 1100 - 1250 AD. Measures approximately 8 ¼" in length by 4" in height. Vessel executed in medium brown with some white painting remaining. Some losses to rim is evident but in good overall condition. 2 pieces in the lot. $200/2

354. Columbia, c. 1000 - 1400 AD. Lower Magdalena, Sinu, Tolima, an interesting "tondo style" round bowl with raised pedestal stand with open work. Incised design on stand and to outside of bowl. H: 4 ¼”; D: 10 ¼”. Small age crack and natural wobble, but a pleasing example. Also included a Taino circular stamp seal with sculpted lizard atop and incised grid pattern on bottom. Dominican Republic, c. 1000 1400 AD. H: 1 ¾”; D: 3 ¾”. Chipped with some losses and repair. 2 items in the lot. $300/2

355. Colombia, Calima, c. 500 – 100 BC. This excellent alcarraza type vessel is 4 ½” high, has a 5” diameter and is adorned with a pair of human heads. The chamber is incised with characteristic linear and geometric designs, with the red slip showing good deposits. $400

356. Colombia, Calima, c. 500 – 100 BC. This excellent alcarraza type vessel is 6 ½” high, has a 5 ¾” diameter and depicts a birthing scene. The face is expressive, the coif is finely incised and the hands supporting the back of the head are superbly detailed. The body of the vessel is delicately incised with the characteristic diamond patterns. See Labbe's Colombia Before Columbus, page 57, for similar example. $400

357. Colombia, Narino, c. 850 - 1500 AD. A wonderful ceremonial rattle from the Capuli Cultural Complex , 4” long, decorated with the characteristic negative resist paint, executed in black over the cream slip. Along with a 2-1/2” high olla from the same site. It is decorated with a black on red linear design on the bottom and unburnished cream kaolin slip on top. In excellent condition. $300

358. No Lot

359. Colombia, Tairona, c. 1000 – 1500 AD. A large red slip vessel in the shape of a seated male figure. His short legs are bent upwards with his hands resting upon his knees,. He wears necklace with 5 pendants; large pierced ears with open spout as top of head. Genitalia exposed. H: 10". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $650

360. Colombia, Tairona, ca. 1000 – 1500 AD. A rare serpent effigy, 3” diameter. The delicately incised markings on this curled snake create a fine texture with the burnished slip. The small bowl created in the center of the coil would have held an offering. $300

361. Colombia, Tairona, c. 500-1000AD. A lot of 2 pieces. The first is an “ocarina” in the form of a rotund bird (lower beak missing). H: 4 ½”. The second piece a smaller black ware bowl with bulbous body and short neck. Single loop handle as nose of a face. H: 3". $300/2

362. Colombia, Tairona, c. 1000-1500 AD. A nice necklace in agate. It is composed of some large and round beads with the larger ones measuring up to an inch in diameter. Necklace has wonderfully colored light orange to red beads with surfaces showing age and antiquity. Strung with a modern clasp and measuring around 18 ½” in length. In excellent condition of preservation and wearable. $300

363. Ecuador, Carchi, c. 1000-1500 AD. A tattooed man seated upon a stool chewing coca leaves. The black decoration is on his face and back down to his waist. Very good rendering of the face and a good item. H: 7”.  $750 

364. Ecuador, Chorrera, c. 1000 – 200 BC. A superb Chorrera stamp seal, 3” x 2 ¼”, featuring a stylized shamanic dragon design. In excellent condition. $300

365. Ecuador, Chorrera, c. 500 – 100 BC. This late example is 7 ½” high and depicts a monkey deity crouching on top of the vessel. The almost grotesque facial features are boldly rendered, the slip is highly burnished and showing good deposits. See Valdez’s Amerindian Signs for similar examples. $400

366. Ecuador, Guangala, c. 500 BC – 400 AD. A fine 7 ¼” tall whistle figure, posed standing with arms to the sides. Delicately incised with intricate patterns to indicate clothing, jewelry and ritual tattoos. The buff slip is highly burnished, the ears are pieced, good tone on the built-in whistles. $500

367. Ecuador, Guangala, c. 500 BC – 400 AD. A large and superbly detailed stamp seal featuring a combination of avian and solar motifs. Rare type. $400

368. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 300 BC - 400 AD. A matched pair of felines, 4 ½” long, mounted on a 4 ½” x 3 ½” platform. Each is somewhat different, one slender and alert, depicted upright, the other heavier and crouching. Both are nicely detailed, with a friendly appearance. Nice gold pigment remnants. $400

369. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 300 BC – 400 AD. An adorable Maternal group, 5” high, depicting a seated female cradling her baby. She is wearing a long skirt and is adorned with a finely detailed necklace and matching bracelets on the wrists and ankles, as well as nose and ear ornaments. In excellent condition, with good blue and gold paint, nice mineral deposits. $500

370. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 300 BC – 400 AD. An exceptionally large mask, 6 ¾” wide, depicting an individual in a state of trance. The facial details are well executed and highlighted with gold, blue and white paint. Powerful example. $500

371. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 300 BC – 400 AD. An excellent shaman mask, 4 ½” wide. The projection on the forehead is indicative of a drug ritual involving the use of San Pedro cactus, which contains a mescaline derivative. Nicely detailed, in excellent condition, with good mineral deposits. $350

372. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 300 BC – 400 AD. An excellent group of five (5) roller seals, 2 ¼” – 2 ¾” long. Each is incised with different stylized designs and the group contains hollow, as well as solid examples. See Cummins Huellas Del Pasado for similar examples. $425

373. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 300 BC – 400 AD. A nice offering bowl with a royal figure sculpted into front, wearing a decorative headband with wide flaps. Intact and unbroken with professionally stabilized cracks within the interior of the bowl. Fine gold and turquoise paint remaining on figure and two bands of color on top of bowl. Very pleasing artistic work. H: 6”; Dia: 6”. Custom made stand. From an old San Francisco Collection. $1500

374. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 300 BC – 400 AD. A standing male noble figure wearing jewelry, elaborate clothing, and large decorative feather headpiece. Intact with excellent remaining colors of red, gold, and turquoise. A gem. H: 6”; W: 4”. Custom made stand. From an old San Francisco Collection. $600

375. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 300 BC – 400 AD. A male dancer in Eagle Costume depicted wearing a costume of the sacred eagle, decorated with feathers and painted miniature eagles, tall hat representing eagle’s head, and heavy necklace. Superb colors of gold and turquoise and intact except for chip on right wing tip. H: 4”; W: 6”. Custom made stand. From an old San Francisco Collection. Just a beautiful example! $600

376. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 350 BC – 400 AD. An excellent Shaman figure, 6 ½” high. This is the depiction of a shaman engaged in thoughtful conversation, with wonderfully animated gestures. He is beautifully adorned with enormous ear ornaments, necklace, large nose ring and a fancy headdress. An object associated with shamanic rituals is attached to his back. Good gold and turquoise paint, nice dendrites. $400

377. Ecuador, Jamacoaque, c. 350 BC – 400 AD. An excellent Pensador figure, 5” high. He is posed in the typical hunched over position, propping up his chin with one hand, with the elbow resting on the bent knee. The individual represented is apparently an elder, nicely adorned with jewelry, including numerous bracelets. The gesture is lively and animated, showing the artisan’s high skill lever. Good applique workmanship, nice gold and blue paint.$400

378. Peru, Chancay, c.1000 – 1300 AD. A woven textile doll of various colors stuffed with vegetable fibers. Nice facial features and an attractive example. L: 8 ¼”. $200

379. Peru, Chavin, c. 1200 – 200 BC. The chamber of this 8” tall vessel is mounted with the heavy, node and incising decorated spout typical of the Cupisnique style. The highly burnished slip of the chamber is incised with step-pyramid and solar symbols. Intact, with heavy deposits. $1200

380. Peru, Chavin, c.600 – 200 BC. A lovely dark green jasper pendant of a monkey taking food to its mouth. Very nice facial detail with a tail carved in fine style and it curls around. H: 1 ¼”. Found in exceptional condition with nice surface deposits. $800

381. Peru, Chavin, c. 700 - 500 BC. A finely carved soft stone pallet with 12 small inlaid turquoise beads on the sides and on the top of 3 heads which are at the top of the piece, each representing an eye. Both sides are carved with incised geometric designs but only one side with small round indentation for ointment and cosmetic storage. Flared and holed handle with square body that has 3 small inlaid heads at top. Choice with some repair. H: 4 ½”. $250

382. Peru, Chavin, c. 1200 – 200 BC. A choice glossy black-ware bottle of "Dragonian" style phase with the typical "Feline/Saurian" Chavin deity as its central motif. Intact and a lovely piece. H: 11½". $650

383. Peru, Chimu, c. 1100 –1450 AD. A "Pacha", anthropomorphic globular vessel with a spout(or handle?) shaped like an upward-curving erect penis with small "testicles" at its base. The mouth of the vessel is the head-dress atop the expressive face on its neck. There is a small chip on the back lip of the mouth, beneath which are small perforations evenly spaced all round c. ¾” below the rim. H: 7 ½”. An obviously rare and desirable item, in nice shape!  $750 

384. Peru, Chimu, c. 1100 - 1450 AD. A highly burnished black ware monkey effigy vessel with tall stirrup and intact spout. Unusual four legged posture with excellent facial details and expression. H: 7”. From an old San Francisco Collection. A very interesting example. $600

385. Peru, Chimu, c. 1100 – 1450 AD. This cute Viringo puppy is 5 ¼” long and has a finely detailed face with the wrinkles and bumps characteristic of this ancient breed. The legs are molded in relief, with the curled tail forming a small handle. An adorable example. $400

386. Peru, Chimu, c. 1100 – 1450 AD. A necklace composed of 5 low content hollow gold beads strung with many smaller shell and sodalite beads. 4 of the gold beads are formed by soldering two cones base to base and are decorated with repoussé work in lines of geometric patterns. The central gold pendant is in the form of a crouching human figure with large eye and hands on his belly. The 4 conical beads measure abut 1 3/8” in length each and the central bead measures 1 3/8” in length as well. Length about 30”. $750

387. Peru, Chimu, c. 1100 – 1450 AD. A silver depilatory (or tweezers) used by Peruvian men to pull facial hair. L: 47mm. Rare and still useable! $150

388. Peru, Huari, c. 600 – 800 AD. A wonderful heavy pendant carved in Lapis Lazuli. This detailed carving depicts “curaca” or local tribal chief with striking presence. H: 1 ¾”. This is one of the nicest Huari pendants we’ve handled and is a rare find. $900

389. Peru, Huari/Tiahuanaco, c.400 – 800 AD. A nice and important, incised kero from Puno. The vessel is executed in medium brown slip with rare hieroglyphs surrounding cup. Incised decoration points to classic Tiahuanaco or early Huari phase. This kero has an excellent carving in relief of Tiahuanaco’s major God “Huiracocha” as it appears on the famous archaeological site “Gateway of the Sun”, in modern day Bolivia. This major deity also called “El Dios de los Vaculos”, or Staffed God, is given due to its representation of holding the staffs of power on each hand. This cup bears wonderful example, not only on “Huiracocha but on the surrounding glyphs as well and whose meaning have probably been lost to modern archaeology. This vessel is intact with a nice patina and would make a wonderful acquisition for the serious collector. H: 5”. $900

390. Peru, Lambayeque, c. 1200 – 1300 AD. This exceptional Lambayeque-Chimu transitional vessel is 9 ¼” high and features an elaborate spout, mounted atop a human head on one side, a feline head on the other. A serpent is emerging from each head and faces the central portion of the spout, which is formed in the shape of a human head wearing a crown. The chamber is a classic Lambayeque type, while the construction of the spout and the style of the faces show a clear Chimu influence. Strong paint and deposits. $850

391. Peru, Lambayeque (Sican), c. 700 – 1350 AD. This fine marine motif stirrup vessel is 7 ¼” high and features a nicely detailed crustacean with slightly anthropomorphic facial features draped over the top. A twisted braid handle connects the two spouts, each of which has a dragonhead adorno at its base. The flared base is deeply incised with traditional decorative designs. In excellent condition with good deposits. $450

392. Peru, Moche, c. 50 – 200 AD. This early Moche bottle is 9 ½” high and depicts a trio of felines, each holding a human trophy head. The large cat mounted atop the chamber is highly detailed and is presenting a realistically modeled human head. The Vicus style spout is projecting from its back and defines the early period of this bottle. Both sides of the chamber feature a feline molded in high relief, each holding a severed human trophy head. Strong paint and deposits. $1750

393. Peru, Moche, c. 200 - 400 AD. A lot of 2 small, hollow burnished red-slip ceramic effigy figures with typically large eyes, ears and nose. They both have their arms across their chest and hold rope-like cords with both hands. Both are very nice with good burnished surfaces, one has a minor age crack. H: 3" & 3 ¾”.A good lot of 2 Moche items. $300/2

394. Peru, Nazca, c. 250 – 450 AD. A rare and wonderful Nazca “Venus” rattle effigy depicting an interesting fertility symbol, female character portrayed with characteristic teary eyes, executed with black and white pigments over dark red ochre. Found in excellent condition. H: 6”. $450

395. Peru, Moche, c. 200 – 500AD. A striking Moche necklace in spondylus shell, sodalite, serpentine, silver, and containing 9 pelican amulets carved in Lapis Lazuli. It measures approximately 15” in length; largest pelican amulet is 1 1/8” in height. Necklace has been strung with a modern silver clasp and is ready to wear. All beads are authentic a nice wonderful acquisition. $700

396. Peru, Moche, c. 400 – 700 AD. This adorable Sea Lion effigy is 7 ¾” long and has a nicely detailed and expressive face, highlighted with white pigment. The slip is burnished and shows nice mineral deposits. A little bit of pitting on the back creates a natural looking skin texture. $400

397. Peru, Moche, c. 400 – 700 AD. A very unusual and large sized figure of the Jaguar god riding a frog spirit. Functionally it is a storage jar with low intact spout. Powerful portrait of a popular and violent Moche god, with remnants of ochre paint on the body and white paint on the face, ears, and mouth. Complete and unbroken with small chip on one tooth. Size is 8” high, 9” long. Custom made stand. From an old San Francisco Collection. $1200

398. Peru, Moche, c. 400 – 700 AD. A stirrup vessel in the form of a kneeling warrior. The piece is beautifully modeled with painted armor, helmet, club, shield and neck protector. Virtually complete paint over entire figure, which include creams and browns on tattoo-like symbols, armor and flesh; red on neck protector, shoulder epaulets, stirrup and spout. Intact and perfect. A Moche masterpiece. H: 7”; W: 5”. Beautiful custom made wooden stand. From an old San Francisco Collection. A great piece and worthy of a nice collection. $3500

399. Peru, Moche, c. 400 – 700 AD. A stirrup vessel in the form of a seated shaman brandishing a ritual wand or club. He is dressed in patterned skirt and elaborate five point astral star shaped headgear with strap and flowing shoulder pieces. Magic symbols on head, front, and back of figure, all complete, painted in cream and brown colors. Star headpiece done in red. The shaman’s face hand modeled prior to firing. A unique and powerful effigy. H: 8”; W: 6”. Beautiful custom made wooden stand. From an old San Francisco Collection. $3500

400. Peru, Moche, c. 400 – 700 AD. A wonderful single stirrup vessel in red slip with details in crème polychrome depicting a man atop a woman and engaged in sexual intercourse. Choice! H:8 ½”. Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $950

401. Peru, Moche, c. 400 – 700 AD. A choice stirrup vessel in the form of a seated royal figure on a pedestal, painted with rich dark brown, cream, mocha, and dark red paints. The figure wears large decorative earspools and a wide brimmed hat with multiple symbolic patterns. Minor chips to paint, no breaks. Strong example of this type of Moche portrait. H: 7”; W: 5”. From an old San Francisco collection. $850

402. Peru, Moche, 400 – 700 AD. A fabulous ceramic single spouted stirrup vessel of a male “death figure” with erect phallus and emaciated rib cage on front side. He sits with his legs outstretched and holds a flute-like musical instrument with both hands up to his mouth. He has large and sunken round eyes and extremely large upper teeth. He wears a veil over the backside of his head. In mottled shades of black, brown and yellow polychrome. An extremely rare and desirable piece and worthy of a strong bid. H: 8". Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D. Collection. $2500

403. Peru, Moche IV, c.450 - 550 AD. An interesting ceramic “phallus” stirrup pot. Simplistic shape with single loop strap handle. Red colored phallus with human face at top extends upwards from round and bulbous crème colored base. Scrotum at base of phallus. H: 8". See Checan, #22 right. Ex. Malter May 16, 1993, lot 340. Rare. Choice. $500

404. Peru, Moche, c. 400 -700AD. An "Erotic" single-spouted black-ware pot. A couple engaged in coitus are atop the vessel, the spout emerging vertically from his back. A couple of chips around the mouth of the spout appear to be the only damage to a splendid piece work. H: 6”.  $700 

405. Peru, Moche, c. 400 –700 AD. A stirrup vessel, anthropomorphic style with owl-faced personage holding branch(?) and another object against its chest on the front container. Tan colored with terracotta-colored handle & spout, with vertical lines radiating down from spout to base on second container. Lovely condition and quite expressive. H: 6 ½”; L: 7”. $500 

406. Peru, Nazca, c. 250 - 450 AD. A large and dramatic looking pear shaped polychrome trophy head vessel. Cup measures 7 ½" at its widest point by 7 ½" in height. This trophy head cup presents a striking depiction of the Nazca major deity, the peregrine falcon. The falcon has its eye brows are painted as long feathers, and also wears traditional head band or "Vincha" around its head. Found almost in choice condition with a possible stress crack stabilized. $800.

407. Peru, Nazca, c. 250 - 450 AD. A bridge handle double spout polychrome vessel. Measures approximately 4 ¼" in height. It depicts traditional main feline/bird Nazca deity in flying motion with ceremonial knife in hand and a number of taken heads as part of its regalia. Found in very good condition with some surface loss consistent with a vessel its age. $550

408. Peru, Nazca, c. 300 – 450 AD. A rare and striking Nazca polychrome single spout bridge handle vessel. It depicts a spotted jaguar with fangs open and tail in relief curled around is body. Intact and wonderfully executed in red black and cream, only minor surface loss. H: 7”; L: 5 ¼”. $1400

409. eru, Nazca, c. 400- 600 AD. A stirrup vessel with double spouts in the form of two "Lucuma" fruit. One is a buff color, the other red-brown. L.6 ½”, H: 4 ¾”. on wood stand. A rare item, lovely. Cf. Pg.52, Ancestors of the Incas, by Kauffmann-Doig for a like example. $750

410. Peruvian Textile Lot. Peru, Chancay, c. 950 - 1200 AD. A lot of 3 textiles. 1). A textile panel in brown over white. This textile is dyed with geometrical patterns and depicting a number of mythological feline creatures. 2). A Cushma / Poncho lined with serpent like animal in brown over white. This Cushma is woven using natural indigenous cotton fibers. Found in very good condition bar a small hole to its back. 3). Peru, Nazca, c. 250 - 450 AD. A fringe panel woven in wonderful vivid blue and deep red cochineal colors. A good lot of 3 pieces. $400/3

411. Peru, Cuzo, Colonial Period, 17 th – 18 th Century. A nice colonial fish bowl or Spanish colonial "majolica". Nice lead based green paint over a crème ground depicting a large center fish with large fins, done in heavy line. A frond is above the fish and the rim is decorated with alternating solid and hatched patterns. This example is unusually deep and probably saw utilitarian use. Repaired from a few large sherds and show good deposits. W: 11 ½”; Dia: 4 ¼”. Wired to hang from a wall. $150

412. Peru, Colonial Period, 17 th Century. The colonial bronze stirrup bearing the family initials from its owner, which makes it real neat. It is heavy bronze with nice surface weathering. It probably belonged to some Spanish grandee or landowner in the America's. It shows heavy use and is quite interesting. L: 10”. Also included a small Inca burial offering effigy in pottery and found in excellent condition. Peru, 16th Century AD. 2 items in the lot. $200/2

413. Chile, Mapuche, c. 1200 – 1500 AD. A Rare Mapuche “Quitra” or stone pipe. This unusual stone carving is executed in the shape of an upright guanaco or other auquenid. It was probably used in ceremonies by the “Machi” or senior shaman of the tribe. It measures approximately 7” in height and has a nice aged surface. A rare and interesting item. $850

414. Chile, Mapuche, c. 1200 – 1500 AD. Another Rare Mapuche “Quitra” or stone pipe. This carving is delicately executed in the shape of a female with arms and legs in loop motion. A very rare example probably used by the Shaman or “Machi” in fertility rites, which in Mapuche society were normally positions held by elderly women of the tribe. It measures approximately 4” in height and is found in choice condition. $850

415. Chile, Mapuche, c. 1200 – 1500 AD. A Mapuche stone “Pifilco” or whistle in the form of a pregnant woman, who is holding her belly with both hands. These amulets were often used during funerary ceremonies as a form of playing farewell to the deceased. H: 5”. Executed in wonderful style and is in excellent condition.$800

416. Chile, Mapuche, c. 1200 – 1500 AD. A Mapuche stone “Pifilco” or whistle in the form of a pregnant female, holding her belly. This stone effigy has wonderful dark patina and is a fully functional whistle. H: 3 ½”. Found in excellent condition with a nice surface. $750

417. Chile, Mapuche, c. 1200 – 1500 AD. An extremely rare Mapuche “Chemumal” stone effigy. This carving portrays spiritual being with folded arms in front and carved steps below are representative of the spiritual stages in life. These types of pieces are often used in funerary ceremonies. The effigy has being Similar objects are found in the Pre-Columbian Museum in Santiago. H: 7”. Found in excellent condition. $950

418. Chile, Mapuche, c. 900 - 1200 AD. A rare and wonderful Pre-Mapuche “Clava” or stone scepter. These “Clavas” were owned and held by Mapuche “Lonkos” or chiefs as symbols of power and strength. This example carved in the shape of a bird’s head. H: 6 ¾”. It is in mint condition with a minor loss to the bottom edge of the staff with a wonderful gray/green patina with central carvings radiating from its center. $1,200

419. Pre-Columbian lot of 2. Both ceramic; one a tripod vessel in pale orange slip, perhaps from Tairona, Colombia, c. 500-1000 AD . Anthropomorphic vessel is of a squatting female “hunchback” who appears to be giving birth?? She has both hands on her rotund torso that reveals her small breasts. Underside of piece shows genitalia. H: 5 ¾”. Second piece is of a seated shaman figure with a large round nose and rotund body, holding implements, one in each hand. Perhaps Mayan. H: 6". A very interesting lot. Ex. Robert S. Ellyn, M.D Collection. $500/2

420. Pre-Columbian lot of 2. Both ceramic. One a colorful “ocarina” of a standing male with his hands on his bell, from Costa Rica, c. 800-1200AD, H:5". Second a West Mexico, Jalisco, c. 250 BC – 250 AD, a small red ware figure of a crawling male with open spout on his back. H: 3.5" $300/2

421. Book Lot. Verur, Dominique D., M.D., Pre-Colombian Dermatology & Cosmetology in Mexico . 1973, Milan, Italy. Hard bound with many beautiful color illustrations. $50

422. Nigeria, Yoruba An "ose-shango" dance wand to "Shango", the Thunder God. Atop a handle sits a female, kneeling, holding overhead an arch with a large, indigo-colored double-axe resting on it in center. There is also some indigo on the figure. H: 21”, on wooden base. Nigeria, Yoruba The Yoruba are known for the high incidence of twin births among their tribal grouping. Hence the twin Ibeji. It is worth reading about the Yoruba as they are an unusual and interesting people. $250 

423. Nigeria, Yoruba. An "Ibeji" or twin figure, this being the male. Of typical style, "coffee bean" eyes, elaborate coiffure colored indigo and there are beads strung about the neck and waist, as well as a brass ring around the left arm. H: 10 ¾”. There are regional variations in style, of course. Suffice it to say the old pieces don't turn up much these days.  $350

424. Nigeria, Yoruba. A "pair" of Ibeji, male & female, the female having a blue bead necklace. Their eyes are metal tacks, the female lacking that in her right eye. H: 10 ½”.   $250 

425. Nigeria, Yoruba. A beaded "crown" for a chief. Multi-colored beadwork covers this entire conical-shaped item, save for an inch of the very top, which is cloth-covered. It might have had a finial, but then, these do come in many styles. There is a face on each side of the piece, with typical scarification on the cheeks. Between the faces are groups of three birds. A very nice item H: 15”. $500 

426. Nigeria, Yoruba, Mumuye. An Ancestral figure of a standing female in the usual abstract style. 24” tall. She has her arms to her sides, but a crested coiffure atop her head, which is interesting because a lot of the figures have just a "helmet-like" coiffure. A nice and an uncommon type.   $300

427. Nigeria, Yoruba, Igbo. A nicely carved "Ikenga", or personal power figure. There are many types, ranging from very simple and abstract, to this type, carved in the round. This figure, painted predominantly in ochre color, with black and white accenting. Two curved horns are atop the scarified head, in the left hand, a severed head, in the right, a dagger. A double-tiered skirt completes the figure, which sits upon a stool. H: 15 ½”.  $250

428. Mali, Dogon. A standing figure in typical style with arms raised overhead. H: 20 ¾”. $250+

429. Mali, Dogon. A standing male figure, arms at sides, the face with the typical "arrow" nose, moustache and beard, scarifications here-and-there. Nice, glossy patina. On wood base. H: 22”.  $250 

430. Mali, Dogon. A "Kanaga" mask, used in funeral and mourning dances. It is of a stylized "cross of Lorraine", usually carved by the wearer himself. A simple black & white color scheme completes this popular type. H: 35”.  $250 

431. Mali, Dogon. A "Satimbe" mask used in Awa mask society performances. A semi-helmet style, surmounted by a standing female figure, arms out-stretched. She is called "yasigine", the "sister of the sigui" (for those of you wishing to know whom she is). The face of the mask has red & white bands of color, the remainder, figure as well, crusty black-brown. H: 30 ½”; W: 28”.  $250

432. Mali, Dogon, another (so it would seem), but this one has the female figure with her elbows bent, hands on either side of the head , and she has some colored bead necklaces. Ht. 36 in. $250 

433. Mali, Dogon. A Mortar and Pestle, well carved with figures, likely the "primordial" beings. The rim, of the bowl has 3 bands of zigzags (waves), beneath which stand the figures. The base is somewhat conical (old losses). Ht. of bowl 9 ½”; L. of pounder 24 ½”. This piece was sold in one of our auctions many years ago. Old utilitarian Dogon items are tough to locate now!!  $500 

434. Mali, Dogon. A pair of black-smith-made iron mounted horseman, long swords held in their right hands. Though these are simple in appearance, the image is a powerful one. A). H: 12 ¾”; L: 10 ¼”; B). H: 11 ¼”; L: 10 ½”. A charming pair. $500

435. Mali, Dogon. A group of 6 smith-made iron figures ranging from almost 11” to 16 ½”, six in all. It looks like there are works from other peoples besides the Dogon mounted on this 1 ½” x 4” board-base. A very interesting group.  $500/6

436. Mali, Dogon, Bambara. A covered container on an anthropomorphic base. The container itself is globular in shape, two bands of opposing triangles carved about its equator. A kneeling female, with typical “split” coiffure, surmounts the domed lid. H: 30 ½”, on wood base.  $500

437. Ivory Coast, Baule. A typical bearded "Ancestral" mask, with the usual elaborate coiffure, though this example has trade tacks near each eye, as well as a tacked-down brass foil band on the forehead. H: 14”.  $200

438. Ivory Coast, Baule. A beautiful heddle-pulley for a loom. This one is probably of the "ancestral" types, but of a bust, carved in the round. Both arms are holding a long beard, one hand above the other. The coiffure is the usual, crested type, the scarifications on both face and body. H: 9 ¼”.   $500 

439. Ivory Coast, Baule. A "Kplekple" or buffalo mask (a small example), of blackened wood. Typically circular with the horns at top meeting at the tips. Simply carved accents at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o'clock. H: 19 ½”; W: 10”.  $125 

440. Ivory Coast, Baule. A cast brass pendant miniature mask, very detailed and well cast. H: 3”. References indicate that such pieces are scarce. The Baule are fabulous wood-carvers, but they do very little casting.  $300

441. Ivory Coast, Baule. A lidded container of wood, of unknown function. The handle of the lid is in the form of a bird, and the globular container itself has two faces and two tortoises opposing each other. Bands of cross-hatching and geometrical patterns adorn the piece and its open-worked base. Ht. ca. 9”.  $250

442. Ivory Coast, Baule. A "Guli" mask, depicting the "god of the dead". Predominantly black with red and white accents. L: 27 ½”.  $300 

443. Ivory Coast, Senufo, attributed to. A wooden mask with broad, toothed border around the "chin-strap" beard. Cross-like scarifications on cheeks, top of mask is flat, upon which are two facing hornbills. The features are very much Senufo! A very sedate-looking piece. H: 18 ¼”.  $250 

444. Ivory Coast, Senufo. A "Kponyungo", or "funeral head mask". This piece is an accretion of a number of animals, such as antelopes, bush pigs, and chameleons. A famous and popular type. L: 40”.  $500 

445. Ivory Coast, Dan. A so-called "passport mask", well-carved in wood, 3 in. long, with another miniature, likely BaPende, L: 1 ¾”.  $125 

446. Ghana, Asante. Two "Akua'Ba" dolls. These are supposed to have the power to assist women in conception. It is said that girls wore them in their waist-sashes inn the hopes of later bearing healthy children. H: 8 ¾”, and another H: 11 ¾” on a wooden base, but not as worn as the first. This piece has several necklaces, one with a glass intaglio and a British colonial coin. A charming old pair!  $300 

447. Ghana, Asante. Another, larger piece well-carved on front & back of the "face", breasts more prominent with a buffalo (?) carved upon the chest. Charming. H: 16”, along with an Ivory Coast figure of a female, old but with losses. H: 9 ¼” on wood base. 2 pieces in the lot.  $200 

448. Ghana, Asante. A pair of combs, probably Christian. One, dark in color, bears a cross carved within a geometric border, and a small head top center, with the usual "fat rings" about the neck. H: 6 ½”. A couple of teeth have chipped ends. The larger piece, H: 7 ¾”, lighter in color, repaired central crack, but this one inscribed YITSO KOME YA ADSINA in a panel above plants and scroll-work. At top are two facing birds (look like chickens). The teeth are intact! These are old and nice examples. $250

449. Ghana, Asante. A lovely cast brass "Kuduo" or Spirit Container. It has an openwork base, the sides engraved with bands of geometric patterns. The lid shows two fighting animals, along with a male figure holding a curved sword or implement. H: 8”; Dia. 4 ¾”. See Leuzinger, The Art of Black Africa (1972), plate H-3 for an almost identical lid motif.  $500 

450. Ghana, Fante. A maternity figure in typical style, whereby the "face" is geometric in shape, rather than round like on the Asante pieces (their neighbors by the way). This standing female has a child on her back, and has colored beaded waistlets and small beaded decorations at intervals around her "face". H: 25 ½”. An attractive item. $250 

451. Benin Tribe. A cast bronze figure of a standing Chief, with an Oliphant(?) in both hands before his face. Somewhat unrefined when compared to other castings, but it may have a charm yet to be revealed to its new owner! H: 7”.  $500 

452. Benin Tribe. A cast bronze plaque, showing three standing warriors. This is like those taken by the British troops as spoils in the Asante Wars of the late 19 th Century. These plaques were used as wall and pillar decorations at the Palace. This is the only way one can acquire such an example as the bulk are in Museums around the world. 11” x 10 ¾”. $500 

453. Upper Volta, Bobo/Gurunsi. A mask with a tall crest used in communal ceremonies. Multi-colored, the crest is carved both sides with geometric patterns, and the eyes are as concentric circles. The mouth is lozenge-shaped. A piece incorporating stylistic features from both-named groups. Old repair to top of crest. H: 31 ½”. $500 

454. Upper Volta, Bobo/Gurunsi. A "Do" mask. This tall mask embraces human, animal and geometric motifs. Similar to the Mossi Wango masks, a "face", likely representing an Antelope is surmounted by a standing female figure, H: 26 ½” by itself. The piece is polychromed, red & white predominating. L: 45 ½”. A very decorative piece!  $250

455. Upper Volta, attributed to Mossi, though this mask has features from a number of groups. An "Antelope" mask with raffia intact. The "mouth" resembles a bird-beak, and the horns are in a circle. The eyes are conical with concentric rings of color, like found on Gurunsi items. Attractive piece. L: 29 ¾”.  $250 

456. Niger River Area. A large cast bronze of a Queen seated in a high-backed chair. She holds a lozenge-shaped knife in her left hand, and a bowl in her right hand. H: 8 ¼” on a wooden stand. Charming and decently finished.  $500 

457. Niger River Area, attributed to. A lot of two cast bronze figures, male and female, hands in front clasping(?) an object. The male, H: 10”; the female, H: 9 ½”. $500

458. Niger River Area. A silver spoon for Gold dust, hammered from thin sheet. The end of the spoon is heart-shaped, with repoussé and openwork. L: 5 ½”.  $100

459. Niger River Area. A pair of cast brass "Erotic" gold weights, each a couple engaged in coitus (different positions). L: 2 ½” & 2 ¾”. $250 

460. Gabon, BaKota. A "Mbulu-Ngulu", a Guardian/Reliquary. The wooden body is covered with beaten copper & brass sheet. H: 25”; W: 13 ½”. This is a famous type with concave face.  $500 

461. Gabon, Fang. A "Ngontang" helmet-mask with four faces. They are in kaolin-white, against a black ground. There is an overlapping cross-like pattern on top of the helmet. This type is quite scarce. While this example is too heavy to wear , on a stand it would be quite decorative. H: 17 ½”.  $250 

462. Gabon, Fang. A solid wood carving that somewhat resembles one of the helmet-masks with multiple faces. The insects, long since departed, had a good time playing in the interior of the piece, so it has character. H: 16 ½” with a rich, glossy brown patina. $250

463. Gabon, BaPende. A "Mbangu" distorted facemask. Difficult to describe, but the carving is expressive. We seem to see the "Mbuya" masks more often than this type. L: 9”. $150 

464. Zaire, BaSongye. A "Kifwebe" mask nicely painted with curving and intersecting bands of back, white and red . H: 18 ½”; W: 11 ¾”.  $250

465. Zaire, Bembe, probably a "Bassikassingo" figure. A bearded figure, standing with hands on the sides of its stomach. H: 8 ¾”. A typical example, but nice. $250

466. A mask, African, that doesn't appear in our references, but is very interesting all the same. L: 19 ½”. It is a helmet mask with a beak like a parrots, and has green, red, black, & yellow coloring.  $250 

467. Makes one think of the Baga, as they have rather abstract stuff, but then we're not sure… A statue of light wood, very simply-painted with black vertical lines, with red ones under the eyes. The feet are red, too. There is a black piece of material tied about the neck, cape-like. H: 20”. The type of wood may help with its identification perhaps? $100 

468. A mask, African, perhaps Mali or Upper Volta?? Looking at it, one thinks Bobo or maybe Mossi. Brown-black with a slightly crusty patina covered with splashes of red-brownish and pinkish color. Quite interesting, and on a wood base of its own!!! H: 31”. $250 

469. A lot of three items: A). An East African maternity figure of a mother with child on her back. Looks like it could have come from any number of places. H: 8”, mounted on a wooden base. B). A Benin-style casting in brass of a royal head, crowned. Hollow, of course. H: 8”. C). A carved wooden ornamental item, with a seated monkey finial. L: 11 ¾”.  $100

470. A lot of two different cast-brass African stirrups, early 20 th century, one, ornate and oval in shape, the other, more simple in decoration, is lozenge-shaped , both curved so that the ends are higher than the center area. L. ca.5 and 6.75 in. interesting pieces you don't see much these days. $250+

472. A lot of 3 bracelets, early 20 th century. Three very interesting West African alloy bracelets, likely Maghrebi. All are almost identical in motif. Inside W: 2” each with openings ca. 1”. Wearable for young or slim females as their shape would ensure good fit. $250

473. Antique bracelet, early 20 th century. A rather heavy, solid silver (or alloyed) bracelet with multi-faceted terminals, the three sides of each with some stone insets (a few lacking), rope-like decoration over its curved length. Inside W.2 ½”. Almost circular in shape, heavy, but wearable. Likely from Fr. Maroc.  $250

474. A lot of eight different bronze bracelets likely from all three of the above-mentioned areas and cultures. They range in type from delicate thin-fabric to nicely-detailed solid rope-like casts. All are old, and sure to delight. Inside W. average 2 in.+, the openings range from .25 to 1.25 in. wearable for children or slim individuals.  $500 

Papua New Guinea

A lot of people seem to think that whenever they see an Oceanic piece, it must be Sepik River. Well, there are a lot of areas producing art besides the Sepik, though it is known for being quite prolific. The first piece listed, for example, is a type often described as "Lower Sepik". Yet, it is a style also found on the Ramu River, whose mouth is not far from that of the Sepik, and which flows in a different direction from the Sepik.

475. New Guinea, a wooden mask with traces of gray paint remaining. Small loss at the bottom toothed border, crack (due to dryness of wood) at top, otherwise not affecting the overall appearance. L: 19 ½”.  $200

476. New Guinea, a Spirit figure, looks like Blackwater Lakes in a way, but Sepik in other ways. Painted in crème, ochre-red, and dark blue, with shell eyes. H: 33 ¼”.  $250 

477. A lot of 3 "Sepik" items: A). A small cult hook surmounted by a face, plain, dark colored wood, H: 19”. B). A multi-colored dance wand, H: 15 ¼”. C). A polychromed spirit post, looks like Abelam. Some losses to finial of two facing birds, and some repair. L: 37 ½”.  $250

478. New Guinea, a blackware handled jug with a face. The nose is prominent, the decoration consisting of "chain-work" all round the face, handle and under the rim. H: 6”. Small chip on the rim, otherwise intact. $125 

479. A semi-helmet mask, appears to be New Ireland. Polychromed piece , black predominating on the face, shell inset for the eyes, crème and red up-turned "moustache", long red tongue from mouth. There are, atop the head, red and yellow forward curving "horns", surmounted by a large red fish. L: 26 ½”. New Ireland items are scarce.  $500 

480. A lot of three Oceanic items: A). A miniature New Guinea long drum, with lizard skin head. Nicely done. L: 14 ¾”. B). Upper Sepik (attributed to) mask, crème and ochre-red on black, L: 16 ¼”. C). A carved palm-frond mask with black and crème coloring. Could be from Vanuatu. L: 20 ½”.  $100

Australia

Aboriginal material is very interesting and somewhat scarce. We don't know the exact origin of the following pieces, but they are worthy of consideration.

481. A pair of "Bark" Paintings. The smaller, oblong-shaped is polychromed with circular designs surrounded by white dots. L: 24 ¼”. The other, rectangular, is in the "classic" style of a standing male(?) figure, four-armed, the penis having a serpent head(?). ochre reds, crème and gray pigments against a brown ground. References mention Northern Australia for this type of work. L: 33 ½”; W: 11 ¾”. These would look very decorative if shadow-boxed! $225/2

End of Auction