EARLY HORIZON STONE SKULL EFFIGY Ca. 300 B.C. - 100 A.D. Dimensions are 8.5 inches in height and slightly less than 10 inches wide. Exact culture non determined but believed to have been discovered in southern Peru. To present owner by descent pre 1970. This remarkable example having surface erosion and patina consistent with the authenticated age is a superb addition to any collection. The skull has been age dated by virtue of Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) and the laboratory report shall be presented with the piece. As can be seen, the skull has been created depicting lateral skull deformation. The most common form of artificially induced deformation is front to back elongation or skull flattening and has been practiced in many parts of the world from ancient to present day cultures. This example displays either natural deformation similar to that arising from those inflicted with Progeria (premature aging disease) or artificially induced lateral deformation. The eye orbits appear slightly more shallow and larger than normal. The skull material is of durable hardstone and is a spectacular piece.