Early Maya Jadeite Ceremonial Pestle with Deities...

Description

Early Maya Jadeite Ceremonial Pestle with Deities

Proto-Classic Maya
C. 200-400 AD
Jadeite
7" Tall x 3" Thick. 5 Lbs.

The large mano shaped effigy is carved and ground from a light green jadeite having extensive hand patina and staining from use and creates a varied color stone ranging from dark green to deep brown. The object is rounded, a string cut saw mark in one side, the base with a smoothed and well worn convex end that would conform to grinding in a bowl, and, due to the weight, would easily and efficiently render herbs or mixtures into finely mixed ingredients.

The ceremonial tool is carved with a main image of a round eyed, jaguar snouted deity with gaping open mouth, tongue suspended, wearing earflares, an arching wrinkled brow, and with plumes atop the head.

Maya jade effigies often have a multiplicity in the designs, the main depiction morphing into other imagery depending on the viewpoint. Frequently, when observing the main circular elements, usually eyes and earflares, one can discern more faces as the object is turned. This effigy features such duality or multiplicity.

The idol, when turned upside down, renders a completely different deity face. The head shows a jaguar snouted deity with large circular eyes, the earflares becoming the jaguar's ears, the mouth is upturned with drilled corners, a split tongue or Tlaloc mouth hanging below, and a headdress with a maize effigy.

The sacred object is designed with an intentional groove to the left rear of the main deity's face which fits the right palm perfectly and makes the carving very easy to rotate so that very little to no pressure would be needed. Ancient red cinnabar speckles the crevices and the carving is in excellent condition.

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