Pair of Colima Pottery Flutes

Pre-Columbian, Western Mexico, Colima, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A pair of working Colima 4-hole pottery flutes. The barrel of the first is elaborately decorated with a carved anthropomorphic lizard and a striking spiked head joint. Its raw umber patina is complimented by a dark, almost black burnish, creating an attractive color gradient. The second is a much more tamed composition, with a lighter cream finish quickly transitioning into the dark burnish that prevails over its exterior - an austere rendition with a magisterial appeal. Fine examples of ancient brownware from the Colima region of West Mexico dating close to 2000 years old! Size of largest: 13.9" L x 1" W (35.3 cm x 2.5 cm)

Provenance: ex-Stein collection, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, USA, acquired prior to 2010; longer flute is ex-Artemis Gallery; ex-private Florida, USA collection

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#164246
Condition Report: Flute with carved lizard has old adhesive mark along the top of the barrel, most likely residue marks from conception. This flute has also been repaired from at least two pieces, with visible break line along its 4th hole from the end. Chipping and commensurate encrustations along its opening end. Patina of both flutes in exemplary condition, with minor abrasions commensurate with use and age, and a remarkable wood-like porcelain finish. Second flute has been repaired for two pieces with break line visible along its second hold, otherwise in excellent condition.