Head Fragment by Unknown Artist - c. 900-300 BC - 7.4 x 6.2 x 5 cm Cleveland Museum of Art Head Fragment by Unknown Artist - c. 900-300 BC - 7.4 x 6.2 x 5 cm Cleveland Museum of Art

Head Fragment

jadeite • 7.4 x 6.2 x 5 cm
  • Unknown Artist Unknown Artist c. 900-300 BC

This sensual head fragment may come from a seated or standing figure. The carving is exceptionally fine, from the slight under-eye puffiness to the delineation of the fleshy lips and the teeth. The profile face of supernatural being is incised just in front of each ear, perhaps indicating that the subject had a special power.

We present today's magnificent work thanks to the Cleveland Museum of Art. : )

Did you know that in ancient Mesoamerica, jade was more valuable than gold? I totally understand it! <3

P.S. Here you can read more on turquoise, about the myth of this gemstone and its appearance in art and culture. Here is more on spinels and emeralds in art!