A Maya Tripod Plate with Jaguar Figure...

Description

A Maya Tripod Plate with Jaguar Figure
Mesoamerica, Late Classic, c. 500-800 AD

Polychrome ceramic tripod plate with pellets enclosed in the supports, causing the vessel to rattle when moved. The interior is finely painted with a remarkable profile image of a jaguar shown upright and striding in human manner, with human legs, and arms, yet retaining the soft torso, spotted pelt, and head of the animal. The creature wears a broad soft collar and extends in its proper left hand a bundle of ribbons or streamers, while the right arm gestures forward. Painted in orange, orange-red, black, and cream, the figure occupies the center of the plate with unusual assurance and animation.

The flaring rim is painted in broad contrasting zones of orange-red and lighter orange, with pseudoglyphic elements and black dotted ornament. Those repeated dots, echoed throughout the painted design, create a subtle but highly effective visual patterning that unifies the composition and enlivens the surface. The result is both controlled and sensuous, with the jaguar image given an especially vivid ceremonial presence. A beautifully painted example, notable for the sophistication of its feline transformation imagery and the refinement of its color and design.

In very good condition; a deliberate perforation at center - a traditional practice from ancient Maya times known as a "kill" hole - has been repaired with restoration over the missing piece.

Provenance:
Collection of Walker Murray Randle, Granbury, TX
A Private Chicago Collection

Diameter: 12 ¾ inches

Estimate: $1,500 - $2,500.

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