An ancient Pre-Columbian Fragment of Yacatecuhtli "The Long Nosed God" 15th Century or earlier

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Description

Clay
35.5 x 24.0 x 24.0 cm

An ancient Pre-Columbian Fragment of Yacatecuhtli "The Long Nosed God" The name Yacatecuhtli name means "lord of the nose". Referenced in Aztec Mythology as being the patron god of commerce and travellers, especially business travellers.
His symbol is represented by a bundle of sticks. Merchants would carry an uttal cane as they moved from village to village selling their wares. At night they would tie them together into a neat bundle before sprinkling them with blood from their ears. It was believed that this ritual was in Yacatecuhtli's honour and that it would guarantee future success in business endeavours. Also affording protection from beasts and thieves on their journeys.

This piece could also possibly be a partial fragment of a Ocarina, in the form of Yacatecuhtli. This was an ancient clay wind instrument, the Ocarina would take several forms being organic, zoomorphic along with representations of Gods. (Due to this being a fragment, this is difficult to dismiss or confirm).

Condition: This item is in a fair condition being a fragment. It presents very well and has been mounted to a hardwood plinth. Fixed via a brass rod and attached using a pre-existing hole on the underside of the fragment. Provenance: Private collection Sydney Australia
Object Size With Base: H 14 cm x W 9.5 cm x D 9.5 cm
Object Size Without Base: H 5 cm x W 5.5 cm x D 8 cm

Price: $1,500.00

Wright Gallery Fine Art

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Sydney, CBD NSW 2000

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