Lot 436
Maya Territories, ca. 600 - 900 CE. Represents a rare type of double chambered vase, featuring a hidden whistle mechanism, meant to whistle as fluid is added to or poured from the exposed vase/chamber. These exemplify the ingenuity, creativity, and technical achievement of the ancient makers. The whistle effect is achieved as fluid is added to or leaves the open chamber, which is connected in the bottom to the seemingly enclosed chamber. As air escapes from the enclosed chamber through vent holes hidden in the form of the bird, a whistling sound is created. The decorative bird form was included to visually complement the audible whistle effect, giving the impression of animating the bird, making it sing as liquid was added or poured. This piece has been carefully tested by adding water, and works beautifully- emitting a clear whistling sound, warbling at times like a bird. It is thrilling to not only see and hold this vessel, but to also hear it as it functions, sharing the same sounds enjoyed by the ancient maker and owners hundreds of years ago. These types of Pre-Columbian Maya vessels are well-documented, but are exceedingly rare and are seldom available on the antiquities market. 10" tall. Provenance: Former Arizona, USA collection. All items in this auction have been legally acquired, are legal to sell, and guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids, papered by our parent company, Artemis Gallery Ancient Art. The starting price is the lowest price at which the lot can sell.
- Condition: Intact. Remnants of original white pigment remain in places on the body of the vessel, and strong remnants of orange/red pigment remain on the very bottom. Mineral deposits and root marks remain as evidence of authenticity. The whistle feature on this piece has been tested (by adding water) and works perfectly.
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| 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 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |