An Intriguing Maya Pendant...

Description

An Intriguing Maya Pendant
Mesoamerica, Late Classic Period, c. 600-900 AD

Carved from a large fragment of queen conch, this rare pendant portrays a female figure emerging within Flower Mountain-the mythic cave of creation in Maya cosmology. The reptilian head of the mountain, a variant of the witz cave monster, rises above, capped by a jaguar; from its open jaws stream the breath scrolls of life and renewal that flow over the woman's upturned face. The composition evokes the conjuring of an honored ancestor into living presence within the hidden underworld. Subtle traces of cinnabar heighten the incised imagery, recalling the shimmering red pigment associated with blood, spirit, and vitality. The front and back glyphs would be legible to a Maya epigrapher. In very good, as found condition, part of the glyphic text panel down the proper right side is missing, some of the glyphs on the back are eroded away. With a stand. This is a museum-quality example, remarkable for its scale and iconography.

Comparable carved shells, as well as jadeite pieces shaped in shell form, functioned as votive dedications and markers of ancestral communion, underscoring the prestige of this example. Its finely worked details, impressive scale, and glyphic text confirm it as a work of exceptional ritual and symbolic importance.

References:
Coe, Michael D. and Justin Kerr, The Art of the Maya Scribe, Harry N. Abrams, New York, 1998.
Finamore, Daniel and Stephen D. Houston, Fiery Pool: The Maya and the Mythic Sea, Peabody Essex Museum, Salem, 2010.

Provenance:
Acquired by the current collection in 1991
Fine Arts of Ancient Lands, New York, NY
According to Justin Kerr's photography log book, he photographed this piece in July 1991, K5089.

Length: 5 inches

Estimate: $12,000 - $18,000.

*Heritage Auctions strives to provide as much information as possible but encourages in-person inspection by bidders. Statements regarding the condition of objects are only for general guidance and should not be relied upon as complete statements of fact, and do not constitute a representation, warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted in the condition report but are apparent in the provided photos which are considered part of the condition report. Please note that we do not de-frame lots estimated at $1,000 or less and may not be able to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and shall not be liable for any damage/scratches to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or art that has slipped in frames. All lots are sold "AS IS" under the Terms & Conditions of Auction.