A Xochipala Stone Bowl ...

Description

A Xochipala Stone Bowl
Guerrero, Central Mexico, Early Preclassic Period, c. 1200 - 900 BC

This finely carved greenstone bowl has straight sides that flare outward to a wide rim. Each side is drilled twice near the rim, likely for suspension or for attaching a cover or carrying handle. Traces of cinnabar on the surface suggest a ritual role, since powdered red pigment was closely associated with life, death, and renewal. In excellent condition.

Stone vessels of this type are rare survivals of early Xochipala craftsmanship. The combination of hard greenstone, elegant shaping, suspension drilling, and the use of cinnabar marks this as a work of technical mastery and symbolic significance.

Provenance:
A Private Collection, New York, NY, acquired in 1994
Merrin Gallery, New York, NY

Diameter: 5 ½ inches

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