Malachite Deity Figurine Appraisal

Teotihuacan-Style Malachite or Hardstone Carved Deity Figurine

This is a hand-carved decorative figurine depicting a stylized pre-Columbian deity in the Teotihuacan or Mayan tradition. The item is crafted from a vibrant green semi-precious stone, likely malachite, onyx-marble, or a dyed hardstone, characterized by deep emerald hues with natural white and light green veining. The figure features a prominent square-jawed head with almond-shaped eyes, a wide nose, and a straight-line mouth recessed into the face. The body is squat, with arms folded across the chest and simple vertical incisions representing fingers or clothing details. The base is carved to suggest feet or a supporting platform. Regarding condition, the piece shows visible surface abrasions, particularly around the eyes and top of the head, where light-colored dust or oxidation has settled into the grooves. Several small impact chips (flea bites) are visible along the sharp edges of the ears and base. The craftsmanship utilizes blocky, geometric forms typical of mid-20th-century Mexican souvenir or 'tourist' art, designed to mimic ancient artifacts. There are no visible maker's marks or signatures, suggesting it was produced as a decorative folk-art piece, likely dating from the 1960s to the 1980s.