Pre-Columbian, Maya, Classic Period, ca. 700 to 900 CE. A ceramic bowl in very nice condition, with the classic deep red painted band around the rim that is a hallmark of the Copador style. The exterior has two registers, one of pseudo-glyph animal heads, and, below that, one of monkeys with round bodies and incredibly elongated arms, legs, and tails. The interior has been painted mostly orange with the clear outlines of the potter's fingers left without pigment from the painting process. Size: 6" W x 3" H (15.2 cm x 7.6 cm)

Simian iconography was symbolic in the Pre-Columbian world, and the monkey's whimsical antics have always fascinated human beings. Simultaneously interpreted as both a mimic and a contradiction of human culture, the monkey was thought to mediate between man and the supernatural.

Copador pottery was manufactured at Copan and traded widely throughout the southern Maya region. This particular style was created by artisans in the Copan area specifically for export, and was probably made to combine popular elements in Maya decoration to increase their value. By repeating certain styles, the artisans creating bowls like this reinforced ceremonial ideas. This is a fascinating piece of history that tells us a great deal about the Mayan economy and society!

Provenance: private D. C. collection, California, USA. D. C. is an Emmy Award winning Hollywood writer and Executive Producer, whose collection is from before 2000

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 to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#126443

Piece is intact, with very fine manganese blooms.