2”x3” male sculpture appears made of ckay
2”x3”
Hello, this item is a small Pre-Columbian-style male figure sculpted in fired clay, measuring approximately 2 by 3 inches. The figure is shown standing, wearing an elaborate headdress with a sweeping crest and detailed facial and chest adornments. The iconography and style suggest inspiration from Mesoamerican cultures, possibly West Mexican shaft tomb traditions (such as Nayarit or Colima), or even Central Mexican Teotihuacan or Toltec representations. The facial features and attire imply a ceremonial or elite individual, possibly a warrior or priest figure.
Due to the widespread production of replicas and tourist pieces in the 20th century, authentication of such small Pre-Columbian figures requires close inspection of surface wear, encrustations, and firing consistency. Based on the visible features in the images, this piece may either be a genuine artifact or a mid-century reproduction modeled after authentic types. If confirmed authentic through thermoluminescence testing or professional archaeological assessment, the value could range between $400 to $800 USD.
How do you arrange thermoluminescence testing?