Description:

Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Maya, ca. 550 CE - 950 CE. This large and impressive Mayan polychrome plate features a magnificent portrayal of the smoking god or God L of the Schellhas-Zimmermann-Taube classification of codical gods. This figure is one of the major Mayan deities, one of the Mam or "grandfather" deities characterized by elite age and associated with trade relations. Iconographically, the smoking god manifests jaguar traits; note the shape of the ear, the feathery headdress and jaguar mantle or cape. The plate is supported by three rattle feet that serve to produce pleasing percussive sounds. Given its magnificent scale, intriguing iconography, and attractive polychrome finish, this plate was likely intended for ceremonial use. There is a drilled kill hole in the center. Quite an impressive piece! 13-1/2"D x 3-1/4"H

Provenance: Ex Robert Sonin Collection, NY, Collected 1950-1970

All items in this auction are legal to buy/sell under U.S. statute covering cultural patrimony per United States Code 2600, CHAPTER 14 -- CONVENTION ON CULTURAL PROPERTY, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

  • Condition: Very minor surface wear. Functioning rattles. Drilled kill hole. Vivid paint, mineral deposits, and root marks. Intact and near choice!

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June 13, 2014 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