Pre-Columbian, Southern Mexico to Guatemala, Maya, Classic Period, ca. 250 to 900 CE. A hand-carved basalt manopla, a hand grip used during play of the Maya Ballgame. This is an intriguing example due to the abstract zoomorphic creature depicted on the handle, with petite feet and an owl-like face on the opposite end. The hefty sporting instrument features a sturdy handle above a spherical body, almost akin to modern kettlebells in form, but was used to strike a heavy rubber ball towards a hoop. Size: 6.5" L x 3.3" W x 5.75" H (16.5 cm x 8.4 cm x 14.6 cm)

Provenance: private Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA collection; ex-private Florida, USA collection, before 2010

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#181420

Minor nicks and abrasions, with wear along one side of handle commensurate with use, and softening to zoomorph on handle, otherwise intact and excellent. Great preservation to overall form.