Lot 2
Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A superb Maya polychrome cylinder vessel, skillfully hand-painted in creamy beige over a red slip with a dynamic and abstract ceremonial scene. Encircling the upper rim is a band of hieroglyphic script, possibly denoting the vessel's contents, owner, or dedicatory information. Below, two elaborately adorned figures bend forward in a ritual posture, each enveloped by a complex array of scrolling motifs, avian imagery, and glyph-like forms. One figure, with full, pendant breasts and positioned on hands and knees, is likely female. The other, crouched low with feet flat to the ground and a small, erect phallus prominently depicted, appears to be male. Their postures and proximity, combined with the intimate nature of the scene, suggest the possibility of an erotic or fertility-related ritual. Size: 5.5" Diameter x 5" H (14 cm x 12.7 cm)
Both wear lavish headdresses, jewelry including anklets and bracelets, and flowing garments or loinclothsvisual markers of elite or ceremonial status.
Cylindrical vessels such as this were closely associated with elite Maya feasting and ritual practices, most notably the preparation and serving of cacao, a sacred and highly valued beverage. The process of pouring cacao from one vessel to another created the prized frothy foam that was considered essential to its enjoyment. Vessels bearing painted scenes like this one not only served a utilitarian function but also acted as status symbols and carriers of narrative or mythological meaning. The positioning of the figures and symbolic elements suggests this may represent a ritual act tied to fertility, divination, or communion with the divine.
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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#194107
- Condition: Professionally repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines; all done very well and difficult to notice. Light surface wear as shown, but otherwise very nice presentation with earthen deposits in areas.
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