Pre-Columbian, Mayan Territories, ca. 550 - 950 CE. A finely executed Mayan redware cylinder featuring two large, central panels, each incised with an abstract rendering of K'awiil, also known as God K, who is the Mayan deity associated with serpents, fertility, lightning, and maize. Given these associations, K'awiil (also spelled K'awil) is oftentimes linked to the maize god, particularly the Tonsured Maize God phenotype, as well as Chaac (also spelled Chac and Chaak) the Rain God given his connections with lightning. Despite the abstract rendering, it is possible to decipher the deity's zoomorphic head, huge eyes, elongated snout, and diminished serpent's tooth. The extension from the forehead along with the billowing form before it may represent a torch emitting smoke which symbolizes the personification of lightning. A beautiful Mayan cylinder adorned with impressive carvings of K'awiil, a god featured in Classic period inscriptions, and a revered image used in Mayan royal rites ceremonies. Size: 4.75" W x 6.25" H (12.1 cm x 15.9 cm)

Provenance: Ex-private New York Collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#117209