Hello,

This item is a pre-Columbian stone carving likely originating from the Maya civilization, which thrived in what is now Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador from around 2000 BCE to 1500 CE. The figure’s stylized form and abstract features are consistent with Maya artistic traditions, where symbolic representation often took precedence over naturalism. The Maya were known for their intricate stone carvings, which frequently depicted deities, mythological scenes, and figures related to fertility and the cycles of life.

The material of the statue, with its rough texture and terracotta undertones, suggests it might have been carved from a type of volcanic stone. Such stones were commonly used by the Maya due to their abundance and durability, allowing artisans to create works that could withstand the elements over centuries.

Erotic motifs in Maya art were often connected to themes of fertility, creation, and the life-death-rebirth cycle, reflecting the civilization’s deep spiritual beliefs. The depiction of such themes in stone carvings like this one would have had significant cultural and religious implications, possibly used in rituals or as symbolic representations in public or sacred spaces.

The carving is in fair to good condition, with some visible chipping, which is not uncommon for artifacts of this age. Despite these imperfections, the piece retains much of its original form and detail, which contributes to its overall value.