Lot 219
Pre-Columbian, Mayan Territories, lowlands, Campeche or Peten, ca. 600 to 900 CE. This finely incised redware bowl presents an exceptionally well-executed narrative scene featuring both of the Hero Twins, Hunahpu and Xbalanque, protagonists of the Popol Vuh, the sacred mythological text of the Kiche Maya. The twins are depicted in animated poses on opposing sides of the vessel, emphasizing motion, duality, and cosmic balance. On one side, a twin kneels forward above a crosshatched netcertainly referencing their descent into Xibalba, the Maya underworld. He is adorned with earspools, a beaded necklace, and a flowing headdress rendered in classic Late Classic profile style. On the opposite side, his counterpart is shown in a dynamic crawling or ritual pose, richly detailed with plaited hair, jewelry, and wristbands. Size: 9.25" W x 3" H (23.5 cm x 7.6 cm)
The carving emphasizes muscular structure and the intensity of movement, suggesting a scene of triumph, escape, or transformation. The deep incisions beneath the vessels polished surface suggest a high-status object made for elite use. This bowl likely functioned as a ceremonial drinking or offering vessel, and may have held cacao or pulque during ritual activities. The presence of both twins makes this not only an art object but a rare narrative representation of Maya myth in ceramic form.
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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#194482
- Condition: Repaired cleanly from 2 pieces. Manganese deposits throughout - including inside incised lines.
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