Description:

Pre-Columbian, Maya, Classical Period, ca. 250 to 900 CE. This is a really fun and unique black ware pot, probably made to hold cocoa. The pot is in the shape of an animal that may be a coatimundi -- it has a cute face with a pointed nose and grinning mouth, as well as rounded ears. Some here have noted the phallic shape of the pot as well -- multiple layers of symbolism. This type of vessel would have been made by hand, then slipped with an iron rich slip to create, under the correct firing conditions, a deep black color of ferrous oxide. Based on residue analysis of pots like this one and many others in the ancient Maya world, we know that they mixed the fruit of the cacao tree with maize, water, honey, and chili to make a delicious chocolate drink, enjoyed by all in society, from the gods to commoners. Size: 3.5" W x 5.75" H (8.9 cm x 14.6 cm)

Provenance: Ex - Florida Gallery, Private Florida 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.

#113821

  • Condition: Intact, with wear to paint but features are excellent

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

June 2, 2016 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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