Description:

Pre-Columbian, Mayan Territories, Maya Highlands, Guatemala, Peten, ca. 500 to 800 CE. Incredibly rare and desirable! Large bowl hand carved from large block of calcite. Slightly flaring walls and small foot, vessel is adorned on 2 sides with incised twin serpent glyphs. This vessel was once covered in cinnabar and stucco. Size: 7" W x 4.375" H (17.8 cm x 11.1 cm)

The serpent was a very important social and religious symbol, revered by the Maya. Maya mythology describes serpents as being the vehicles by which celestial bodies, such as the sun and stars, cross the heavens. The shedding of their skin made them a symbol of rebirth and renewal.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private Canadian collection, acquired from John Wise Gallery, New York, USA in 1981

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#182231

  • Condition: Choice and rare in this quality!

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January 18, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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