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

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#113821

Intact, with wear to paint but features are excellent