How to craft a 1/2 million dollar narrative courtesy of Christie's: 1) Push provenance prior to 1938...2) Link to famous artist Matisse & buddies...3) Cite article from Journal of Archaeological Science, 5 other publications, 2 exhibits, & 700 word essay https://www.christies.com/features/A-Teotihuacan-mask-owned-by-Pierre-Matisse-11470-1.aspx?sc_lang=en&lid=1

Thanks @MichaelESmith for heads-up about this sale

What's horrifying is that the marketing piece advertising this mask dares to suggest that collection of such masks in the modern era is ok because, well, "the Aztecs collected them first, and archaeological excavations prove it". Oh, "and you know they're all in museums anyway"

I take particular offence with this lot because they liken it to a vase I studied in person @AMNH. You can't compare a vase destined for a private collection to one in a collection accessible to the public & researchers. https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-vase-maya-classique-recent-env-550-950-6303183/?from=searchresults&intObjectID=6303183

While both are problematic because they are outside of their country of origin (putting aside any issues of authenticity), we know at least where one is if it is ever to be returned. The other will end up who knows where, perhaps never to reappear on the market again.