Pre-Columbian, Mexico and northern Central America, Maya, Late Classic Period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A stunning and sizeable jadeite bead, hand-carved to display a tubular form, an annular drill hole, and a lipped rim at one end. The thick, smooth walls of the piece boast gorgeous hues of celadon, emerald, and mint greens with caramel and cream striations. A splendid example from the ancient Maya! Size: 0.9" in diameter x 3.75" H (2.3 cm x 9.5 cm); 4.5" H (11.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Jade was revered by the Maya not only for its beauty, but also because it had spiritual power - it was believed to be the embodiment of the wind and the "breath" that formed the Maya soul. In addition, scholars argue that its color was associated with water and vegetation. While the Maya used jade to create impressive jewelry, we also know that they placed jade beads in the mouths of the dead, perhaps as a means of extending the circle of life. Furthermore, many scholars have argued that the demand for jadeite contributed to the rise of long distance trading networks as well as the rise of urban centers in ancient Mesoamerica.

Provenance: private New York, USA collection, before 2000

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#165137

Intact and excellent. Great luster across all surfaces.