Authentic Pre-Columbian Veracruz Artifact ca. 400 to 700 CE Shaman or Priest on Platform with Provenance & Certificate of Authenticity

Authentic Pre-Columbian ceremonial Priest or Shaman on platform artifact. Artifact from Veracruz Culture dates circa proto-Classic period 400-700 CE. Exquisite piece which would have most likely been carried during ceremonial rituals, with hands holding the sloping side rails. The ancient figure wears an elaborate costume comprised of a cape (quexquemitl) over a skirt, a sizable beaded necklace, conical ear adornments, and a large, plumed headdress displaying a fringed panel with a bird ornament across the forehead and a helmet-like verso with a flared rim. Presenting squinting eyes with heavy lids and a lengthy nose, the figure's expressive visage is covered from the nose down by a buccal (skin) mask, which indicates that the scene is associated with springtime planting, fertility, and rebirth. Size: 6 3/8" W x 10 1/8" H (16.19 cm x 25.71 cm) Excavations near the modern Mexican town of Remojadas have revealed two types of impressive, detailed pottery figures from the Veracruz period