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Pre-Columbian Art :
Mayan Bowls, Plates and Vessels : Copador Style Mayan Polychrome Bowl
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Copador Style Mayan Polychrome Bowl - PF.5654
Origin: El Salvador/Guatemala/Honduras
Circa: 300
AD
to 900
AD
Dimensions:
3.25" (8.3cm) high
x 8.375" (21.3cm) wide
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
$7,500.00
Location: United States
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Description |
A painted frieze of five seated figures decorates
the exterior rim of this tapering vessel. They all
wear extravagant headdress that protrude from
the back of their heads, appearing in shape like
a woven basket, and project forward over their
faces like an antenna. They all hold out their
exaggerated, large hands as if making an
offering. Ear ornaments are clearly visible on
each figure. Occasionally, an object similar in
form to the number “3” appears in front of their
hands. A red ring is painted above and below
the tapering point of the bow-shaped object.
The meaning of this motif remains a mystery.
Meanwhile, a frieze of turkeys, a vital staple of
the Mayan diet, fills the interior rim of this bowl.
Painted with red tail feathers and necks, they
carry in their beaks what appears to be a black
worm. There must be some significance between
the varied motifs. How do the seated man and
the turkey relate to each other? Found inside a
tomb, buried along side a ruler or an important
dignitary, this vessel, probably used in
ceremonies, was as essential in the afterlife as it
was in this world.
- (PF.5654)
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