Lot 359
A rare type of Pre-Columbian Maya polychrome footed vessel depicting ritual enema use. Circa 600 A.D. - 900 A.D. This example measures approximately 6 ½" wide by about 4 ¾" tall, and depicts two Individuals around the exterior scene engaged in self-administering enemas. The ancient artist employed a technique that has been referred to by modern scholars as "X-ray" view to show the syringe (stem) of the enema being inserted into the hind-quarters of each individual in the scene. It is well documented that the ancient Maya used enemas ritually to introduce potent alcohol and hallucinogenic substances into the bloodstream (via the Colon, where the substances can be absorbed rapidly and without loss of potency). This was done for the purpose of inducing an altered state of consciousness, whereby the participant could engage in powerful shamanic visions. Such enema use was but one of the many exceedingly risky ways by which the ancient Maya sought to shock their bodies for the purpose of inducing altered states of consciousness and visions. The risks associated underscore the importance they placed on such ritual activities, as well as the seriousness with which they approached them. Vessels depicting these enema ritual scenes are relatively rare, and this is an exceptional example of the type. See Peter deSmet's important work "Ritual Enemas and Snuffs in the Americas", pages 233 & 234, for comparable examples of this exact type of scene on Maya vessels, and for excellent scholarly info on this little-known subject related to ancient Maya ritual. Provenance: Former Rafael Moses collection, one of the founders of the former Rocky Mountain Institute of Pre-Columbian Art, who assembled a fine collection of important artifacts. The starting price is the price at which the piece can sell.
- Condition: This vessel exhibits ancient, original drilled holes opposite ancient breaks, evidencing an ancient repair. This suggests that this artifact would have been important to its original owner. Minimal, museum quality restoration has been performed to chipping around the edge of the pedestal foot, and there is stabilization/restoration to some areas of the ancient break lines that once extended to the lower edges of the bowl area. Touch-ups were kept to a minimum to retain the original surface, scene and integrity of this artifact.
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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 |