Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. An impressive pottery vessel presenting a cylindrical form with a flat, circular base and tall walls that rise to an annular rim. Boasting vivid hues of black, orange, beige, white, and red, the exterior walls are adorned with the image of 2 jaguar deities, both shown standing on their hind legs and confronting one another. Each of the beasts are shown in profile with a thick, black-colored body, a spotted shawl that drapes over the shoulders, and a headdress with lengthy, white plumes that fall behind them. A narrow tube is shown on the interior, travelling vertically up the wall. Size: 2.7" Diameter x 4" H (6.9 cm x 10.2 cm)

Known as the "king of beasts" in the Pre-Columbian world and infamous for possessing high speed and massive strength, the jaguar was believed to dominate nature and inspire respect and awe throughout the ancient Americas. Jaguars were associated with strength and leadership, whether regarding spirituality or martial skill. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this King of Beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World whom they viewed as their spirit companion and protector. According to a dramatic narrative in the Popol Vuh, the protective hero twin Xbalanque, possessing a zoomorphic phenotype with jaguar skin, fought the monster macaw Vucub Caquix with his twin Hunahpu, and the hero twins defeated the monster.

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: ex-Arte Primitivo, New York, New York, USA, "Fine Pre-Columbian and Tribal Art, Classical, Egyptian, and Asian Antiquities" auction (auction 102, June 9th, 10th, and 14th, 2021, lot 168); ex-private New York City, New York, USA collection; ex-Merrin Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired 1968 to 1969

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#166778

Repair and restoration to 2 areas along rim, with resurfacing and overpainting along new material and break lines. Stabilization to several hairline fissures, mostly visible within interior cavity. Abrasions to rim, body, and base, with light fading to original pigments, and light encrustations within interior cavity. Nice preservation to pigment across exterior surfaces as well as great root marks throughout. Old inventory labels beneath base.