Pre-Columbian, Mayan territories, ca. 500 to 800 CE. A spectacular hand-built Mayan polychrome cylinder in red, black, and beige hues - depicting three lords or shamen dressed in jaguar costumes replete with fierce masks representing the wild feline's intimidating visage with its red eyes and fanged grimace, gloves and boots made of spotted hides said to symbolize the starry night sky as the jaguar is nocturnal, and a grand, regal-looking red neck collar. The trio stands in profile, facing left, and moving in a mysterious, creeping manner. A wonderful example featuring fine brushwork in vibrant color. Size: 4.125" W x 5.625" H (10.5 cm x 14.3 cm)
King of Beasts in the Pre-Columbian world, infamous for possessing high speed and massive strength, the jaguar was believed to dominate nature inspiring respect and awe throughout the ancient Americas. Jaguars were associated with strength and leadership, whether in regard to spirituality or martial skill. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this King of Beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World whom they viewed as their spirit companion and protector. In addition, scholars believe that the jaguar is associated with fertility and vegetation by the Maya; note that the so-called waterlily jaguar is depicted with waterlilies sprouting from its head connoting this fertility.
For the Maya, ceramic vessels like this example were gifted to elite individuals, akin to the gifts exchanged between high profile dignitaries today. Vessels like this were a functional gift oftentimes used to drink the ceremonial cocoa drink, created by artist who came from elite families and who took pains to recreate the stories of Mayan mythology and religion as well as to depict royal and godly personages in their artwork. This artwork reinforced the ruling ideology and reminded the viewer of what was valuable in Mayan society.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex private Toledo collection of Orlando, Florida USA, acquired in 1971
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#130858
Condition
Stabilized pressure cracks to base. Expected surface wear with some pigment loss commensurate with age, but much remains and the imagery is still vivid. Root marks and mineral deposits.