Pre-Columbian Ecuadorian Figure

This unique figure depicts the decorated and finely ornamented body of the exalted Pre-Columbian Ecuadorian elite. A pointed coiffure, elaborate beaded necklace, and loincloth are examples of the status and power represented by such an individual. Not much scholarship has been done on figural sculptures such as this one and very little evidence of their purpose or use exists, but almost certainly they were used ritually as representations of idealized males in the society.

500 BC - 1531 AD

7 3/8" wide x 9 1/2" high