Lot 4A
Pre-Columbian, Mesoamerica, Maya territories, ca. 250 to 900 CE. A rare and finely carved shell gorget in the form of a miniature face mask, or maskette, likely worn as a pendant or attached to a ritual costume. Fashioned from a marine shell, the piece is vividly incised with dynamic linear motifs across the brows, cheeks, and mouth, creating an expressive, fearsome visage. A deeply grooved headdress with striated texture crowns the head, while flared, circular earspools adorn each side. The figure's narrowed eyes, angular nose, and bared fanged teeth give it a potent supernatural presence. Size: 3.1" W x 2.8" H (7.9 cm x 7.1 cm); 4.7" H (11.9 cm) on included custom stand.
The contours and ferocious grimace suggest this may represent a Maya underworld deity or a zoomorphic supernatural being. One possible candidate is the God K (K'awiil) or God GII, deities associated with lightning, serpents, and kingship, often depicted with elongated, contorted facial features and prominent fangs. Alternatively, the snarling mouth and incised lines may link this maskette to a jaguar or bat deity, both of which symbolized power and the liminal threshold between life and death in Maya cosmology.
The vibrant reddish-orange pigment surviving in the shells grooves adds intensity to the incised relief, echoing the painted surfaces of larger Maya ceremonial masks and regalia. Gorgets such as this one were more than adornments - they were worn close to the body, believed to channel spiritual energy, invoke divine protection, or demonstrate high status and esoteric knowledge. Whether representing a deity or a powerful mythic identity, this intricately carved pendant is a striking example of Maya lapidary skill and religious symbolism.
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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#194102
- Condition: Two pieces in upper right have been professionally reattached, but otherwise in excellent condition with good detail and light patina in areas. Not recommended for wear due to previous break.
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