Pre-Columbian, Mayan Territories, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A large polychrome plate with a hand-painted jaguar in tondo, crawling toward the right and presenting an open mouth suggesting that the fierce feline is roaring and a marvelous spotted coat, with a banded border - two solid red, one dotted, and one with a meander-like motif. 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 also 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. Interestingly, there are some vegetal forms surrounding the jaguar on this dish. Size: 10.375" D (26.4 cm)
For the Maya, finely decorated ceramic works like this example were gifted to elite individuals, akin to the gifts exchanged between high profile dignitaries today. Painted Mayan pottery like this was used for feasting, ritual purposes, and as prestigious gifts given to emphasize the power of the giver and bind the recipient to giver through a form of purchased loyalty. Maya kings and queens oftentimes gave them to local governors. In addition, the artists who created them were also often minor royalty or nobility, especially the ones who could paint glyphs as literacy was reserved for the Mayan elite.
Provenance: private Southern California, USA collection, acquired in the 1970s to mid-1980s
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#142370
Condition
Repaired from about 3 to 6 pieces. Normal surface wear with some fading to pigments, but imagery is still discernible.