A Nayarit Hardstone Horned Toad Pendant, ca. 300 BCE - 200 CE
This object qualifies for free USA shipping and a flat rate fee of $60 if shipping internationally.
superbly detailed amulet of a long-horned toad, carved from lustrous white limestone with incised detail to face and arms, and raised scales on the back. Frogs and toads were associated with rain and the sustenance that it brought about.
The ancients of Mesoamerica interpreted their croaking as a sign of coming rainstorms. As "rainmakers" or rain heralds, these animals were symbols of fertility and rich abundance. Moreover, the life cycle of a toad from egg to fish to a four-legged animal was a dramatic metamorphosis that the ancients interpreted as a reenactment of the transformations undergone by shamans under the influence of hallucinogenic substances during ritualistic ceremonies. Pierced for suspension on the tail, and under the throat, Dr Heflin catalog details in black pigment on the underside.
Condition: Some surface wear that does not detract, overall intact with excellent patina.
Dimensions: Length: 6 cm (2.36 inches)
Provenance: Ex. Dr Allen Heflin Collection, assembled in the 1950's - 1960's, thereafter Lorenzo Gordon Fritz Collection. Dr. Heflin's collection number '12787/421/Nayarit' written in black ink on the base.
Dr. Heflin worked in Mexico as an archaeologist from 1946 - 1970.
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