Description:

Pre-Columbian, Guatemala and southern Mexico, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 700 to 900 CE. A vivid celebration of movement and symbolism, this painted ceramic bowl hails from the Copador tradition of the Maya, likely produced in the Late Classic period in the borderlands between Honduras and El Salvador. The vessel's thick, rounded walls rise to a softly everted rim, while the base curves inward in a gentle taper. Its exterior is animated by a frieze of two stylized human figures rendered in swift profile strokes, their arms and legs extended as if swimming through the reddish-orange slip. Their bodies float beneath a fluid band of glyphic motifs, likely naming individuals or mythic episodes, rendered in dark lines and bordered by a deep red framing line. Above this scene, a ribbon of swirling volutes encircles the upper shoulder, echoing the movement of water or wind and visually tethering the figural action to the rim. Size: 6.6" Diameter x 4.2" H (16.8 cm x 10.7 cm)

The brushwork is deft and confident, with fine-line black outlines and a color palette dominated by red, orange, and cream - all hallmarks of the Copador style, which blends Maya iconography with regional innovations. Bowls such as this were likely used in elite or ceremonial settings, possibly for cacao or other ritual substances. The swimming motif may suggest passage through water or the underworld, echoing narratives of rebirth or heroic journey.

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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#194292

  • Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines; all done expertly and difficult to notice. Some scuff and surface wear commensurate with age, but, otherwise, excellent presentation with good remaining pigments an mineral deposits in areas.

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June 13, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000