LARGE ROBUST PRE-COLUMBIAN JADE AXE GOD PENDANT *PC105

Product Description

This is the FIRST time we have handled an example of these RARE early form figural axes where they were truly carved from an axe. You can plainly see the former shape, a simple laterally compressed ground celt axe.  Most axe god pendants take their name only because they resemble an axe.  Here is a scarce example that was actually carved from what was once a functional stone axe.

The stone on this specimen is unusual being a type of jade with heavy veining of another type of stone that resisted weathering so that it protrudes from the host rock surface.  The art form is classic early Mezcala with a prominent nose and stylized, almost comical features, as well as an abstract body with folded arms.  It resembles an avian deity that some idols have been known to represent.  A very prominent suspension hole has been drilled through the neck area and has heavy calcite deposits.  For advanced collections of rare early forms of fundamental ancient objects, this is  A MUST!!!  Wearable or keep as is in its display box.  

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HISTORY

In some Mesoamerican Pre-Columbian Cultures, axe-like anthropomorphic pendants called "Axe Gods", can be found, often resembling a sharpened celt axe at the base and having features of some type of deity or figure.

The Pre-Columbian Mezcala Culture is a little understood culture that was based in present-day Guerrero, Mexico.  A long, complex culture history of the Guerrero region prevents a finite understanding of who exactly made Mezcala objects.  The culture is also called Balsas Culture because it is centered in the upper Balsas River drainage region.  It is believed the Mezcala style emerged during the Preclassic Period,  between 700-200 B.C. and continued on into Classic Period to 650 A.D..  

Ojects attributed to the the Mezcala Culture include figurines, masks, small effigies of animals and objects, beads, pendants and earplug flares.  They are carved from a variety of green, gray-green, gray and black color hardstones and jade.  The art style is so unique that Mezxcala objects are readily recognized for their abstract and minimalist anatomical features.  Some Mezcala style stone objects show strong Olmec influence.  Beautiful stylized masks from Guerrero exhibit Teotihuacan Classic Period influence.  Mezcala style objects were excavated by the much later Aztec peoples and revered as sacred objects.

 Mezcala style stone carved figurines have a basic petaloid axe form and are sometimes casually labeled "axe gods".  Symmetrically arranged cuts in the stone are arranged to resemble facial and body features.  Scarcer objects depict human forms in seated or crouching positions.  Carved stone masks are found in more diverse forms from abstract to beautifully stylized renderings.  Clay figures and pottery are also known but the culture is most famous for its unique carved stone objects. 

WARNING:  There is an ALARMING number of fake ancient artifacts on the market.  As fine quality intact, original specimens become more scarce and techniques have become more sophisticated to fake these artifacts.  We have personally handled numerous extremely well-done fakes with extremely convincing patinas.  The degree to which the fakers have been able to replicate patina to disguise their work requires an expert examination by highly experienced individuals.  Like all rare collectibles, fakes plague the market.  Deal only with sources that are extremely knowledgeable in forgeries or altered pieces and get a written guarantee of authenticity that has no conditions or expiration period.  Paleo Direct includes this guarantee in writing with every item we sell.  All purchases should include from the dealer a written guarantee of authenticity with unconditional and lifetime return policies regarding such guarantee.