**Originally Listed At $750**

Pre-Columbian, southern Mexico and northern Central America, Mayan Territories, Late Classic period, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A large, impressive incensario, made of terracotta, composed of two pieces, a bowl and an ornate lid with handles and a flared chimney to funnel the incense smoke to the heavens. The base of the two-part censor is an hourglass form - the upper half forming the deep bowl which the lid rests upon the lip. Incensarios were used in rituals to commune with other realms - smells connected the living to the deceased and deities, as scents were thought to be a source of nourishment to these entities. Copal, a tree resin from the torchwood tree was often used in burning rituals, however other flammable and fragrant offerings, such as corn, were used. Priests and worshipers hoped that their prayers would be carried upward along with the wafting smoke to catch the attention of the spirit or deity they wished to please or commune with. Size: 10.5" Diameter x 19" H (26.7 cm x 48.3 cm)

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#174860

Repaired from many pieces, visible break lines and fissures throughout. Chips and gaps between pieces, small losses, and adhesive residue. Nice preservation to overall form.