Brunk Auctions
Live Auction

Emporium Auction - September 14, 2023

Thu, Sep 14, 2023 09:00AM EDT
Lot 284

Four Mesoamerican Carved Jade Pendants and Three Obsidian Labret Plugs

Estimate: $300 - $500

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $25
$100 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $200
$3,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$10,000 $1,000
$20,000 $2,000
$50,000 $5,000
$100,000 $10,000

possibly Pre Columbian, acquired prior to 1944, comprising: one figural pendant, one mask pendant, one animal head pendant, and one pendant with metal loop, 3/4 in. to 1-3/4 in.; labret plugs in three different sizes, 1/2 in. to 7/8 in.

Provenance: Estate of William E. Hughes, San Antonio, Texas; by descent in family

Note: Some of these objects test as nephrite on the Presidium Gem Tester II.

Mr. William E. Hughes amassed this impressive collection of Mexican jade and stone artifacts in the early 20th century. Many of the artifacts are sourced from archaeological explorations in areas such as a tomb at Monte Alban, the Sacred Well at Chichen Itza, and the outskirts of Mexico City. In 1944, Mr. Hughes loaned his collection of over 200 objects to the museum at the New Trier Township High School in Winnetka, Illinois. The artifacts would remain on display until 1973, when they were returned to the family. 

Accompanied by correspondence regarding the artifacts between the family and the New Trier Township High School. 
 

Condition

surface dirt/accretion, wear, losses, and abrasions possibly as made; pendant with metal loop with chip to bottom right; one labret pug with chipping to edges

Estate of William E. Hughes, San Antonio, Texas; by descent in family