Pre-Columbian, Guatemala, Highlands region, region of Zaculeu, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 500 to 800 CE. A classic example of a hand-built pottery vessel in tall, cylindrical form decorated in negative resist of white against black, reminiscent of the Codex style from the Peten region. Featured across the vessel's surfaces are two dancing skeletal deities, probably representations of God "A" along with long sashes to which are attached two inverted human trophy heads. Size: 4.375" W x 11.375" H (11.1 cm x 28.9 cm)
God A is a Maya god of death whose name is not yet known. He is depicted ruling a part of the underworld surrounded by the bones of his subjects. His symbols are a skull and obsidian knife, both related to the practice of human sacrifice.
Provenance: ex-Arte Primitivo Gallery, New York, New York
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#127290
Condition
Remarkably intact with one small stable stress crack and minor pigment wear as shown.