Description:

Mayan territories, ca. 550-950 CE (Late Classic). This elaborate cylindrical urn is most likely a depiction of the Mayan sun god Kinich Ahau, designated as god G when referring to the codices. The element kinich refers to the sun-eyed feature that we see here as scrolled pupils and was used as a royal title during the Classic Period. This connection to kingship is celebrated in the richly carved and applied regal headdress as well as signs of elaborate facial tattoos/paint. God G is depicted as a middle aged man with an aquiline nose, spiraled/crossed eyes, and a filed incisor in the upper row of teeth as we see in this piece. The headdress shows a plethora of celestial and avian references as the sun god makes its way across the sky. Beyond its rich iconography, signs of the artisan's skilled technique and artistry add to its undeniable value. 8"D x 7"H. 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.

  • Provenance: Ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL, acquired prior to 1970.
  • Condition: Some loss of applied decoration and surface as shown. A few stabilized cracks. Nevertheless intact and shows rich red cinnabar pigmentation as well as black tattoo markings.

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October 11, 2013 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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