Lot 3A
Pre-Columbian, Maya territories, Late Classic period, ca. 650 to 950 CE. A wonderful blackware cylinder vessel from the Late Classic Maya period, skillfully carved with intricate decorative and narrative elements. The vessel is formed with a straight-sided cylindrical body and features a deeply incised band of pseudo-glyphs encircling the rim - a hallmark of elite Maya ceramics that echoes the revered aesthetic of true hieroglyphic script. Beneath this decorative register are four distinct figural panels arranged in sequence. The two larger panels depict dynamic standing figures, each adorned with a prominent headdress and loincloth. Striding purposefully to the left, the figures extend one arm forward to grasp a cord or tether, which appears tied to the earth or a grounded element. A long, tail-like or downward-projecting form emerges from behind each figure, possibly signifying a ceremonial costume or supernatural aspect. Size: 4.6" L x 4.8" W x 7.3" H (11.7 cm x 12.2 cm x 18.5 cm)
Interspersed between these scenes are two narrower rectangular panels, each featuring a stylized profile head tilted upward. These faces are framed by vertical elements above and below that resemble feathers, palms, or ritual foliage, emphasizing their connection to themes of nature, transformation, or spiritual ascent.
Such vessels were likely used in elite contexts - possibly for cacao consumption or ritual offerings - and the use of blackware and pseudo-glyphic decoration signals both aesthetic refinement and cultural sophistication. The figures and iconography may allude to mythological narratives or ceremonial performances, underscoring the vessels symbolic and social significance within the Maya world.
Provenance: Collection of Y. Kayvan, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from a Los Angeles, California, USA gallery acquisition dates range from the late 1990s to 2005
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#194281
- Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration over some break lines and others visible in areas. Some nicks and abrasions to surface as shown, all commensurate with age. Otherwise, nice remaining detail and rich earthen deposits throughout.
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