*Vieillard assis les jambes croisées.

The right arm is outstretched, hand resting on the knee, palm open showing burn marks on the inside. The left arm is bent, with the elbow on the knee and the hand placed on the chin. The face is marked by deep incised wrinkles. A thin, streaked beard surrounds the lower face. The mouth is open, revealing the teeth. The nose is straight and the nostrils are pierced. The eyes are almond-shaped and the pupil is deep-set. The prominent eyebrows are arched. The short hair is curly. He wears a loincloth and is adorned with circular earrings, a pearl necklace and bracelets. This old man is associated with the old fire god. Brown hollow clay Veracruz - Mexico, 450 - 750 AD 39.5 x 33.5 x 30.5 cm The Veracruz culture developed on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico. The Classical Period extends from 450 to 750 AD. Veracruz ceramics are distinguished by their outstanding quality and the beautiful representations of human figures. Enigmatic and beautiful, these sculptures often seem to be linked to a particular rite. Provenance: - Former Yvon Collet collection since 1969 - Mermoz Gallery, 2004 Broken and glued. Back edge of the back broken-glued with re-filling and restoration of the bottom of the neck and top of the shoulder *This lot is presented in temporary importation