A published Maya Jade Alligator Head Bead, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 - 950 CE

An elongated bead in the form of an alligator's head carved from marbled light green and cream jade. The alligator's large round eyes sit behind the elongated and slightly upturned snout, a large suspension hole drilled lengthways through the bead, emulating the mouth. Medium: Jade Dimensions: Length: 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm) Condition:  Intact and in excellent condition overall Published:   Sotheby’s, May 17, 1994, lot 122.Provenance:  George Pepper, private collection, acquired around 1965,  Sotheby’s, May 17, 1994, lot 122, estate of Alphonse Jax, NYC, then to family by descent.