Description:

Pre-Columbian, Mayan territories, late Preclassic to Classic Period, ca. 1st to 9th century CE. A stunning and quite sizable pottery incensario featuring the head of a deity, likely the wind god or fire god, wearing an elaborate headdress of flared blue plumage - perhaps a reference to the sacred plumed serpent Quetzalcoatl - and a necklace of huge beads, indicative of high status. The evocative visage gazes forth from giant eyes above a broad, arched nose, prominent nasolabial folds, and a partially open mouth exposing a pair of front teeth. Rectangular flanges or wings flank the vessel, doubling as handles, while liberal remains of glyphs can be seen painted in black, white, and red pigments. Size: 15.6" Diameter x 13" H (39.6 cm x 33 cm)

This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) analysis and has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full printed and bound report is available to the buyer upon request.

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#174641

  • Condition: Professionally repaired and restored with break lines just barely visible in a few areas. Chip to proper right ear, left earspool, and interior of rim. Expected surface wear with nicks and abrasions, commensurate with age. Areas of fire darkening from use. Otherwise, very nice presentation with ample remaining pigments. Rich earthen and manganese deposits throughout. TL holes to base and underneath rim.

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October 20, 2022 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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$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 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000