Pre-Columbian, Mayan, ca. 600 CE to 900 CE. A large Pre-Columbian Maya polychrome plate. The glyphs on this plate are most likely calendrical in nature, representing the elaborate ways in which the ancient Maya would depict important dates on vessels as a way of communicating and commemorating them. The bar and dot on the left of the plate designate the number "six" (the bar signifies a value of "five" and the dot a value of "one"). The compound gylph in the center of the plate is more complex, combining various glyphic elements together. This could likely be deciphered with patience and study to reveal the full meaning, which is currently of undetermined significance. Includes acrylic display stand, as shown. Size: just over 12" in diameter.

Provenance: Ex-private collection, Lexington, KY.

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#109290

Intact with only a minor, stable stress line extending from the rim on one side. This has been stabilized with water soluble glue. Otherwise, the plate remains in excellent, original condition with no repair or restaration. Vibrant original pigment remains, and the surface is covered with excellent mineral deposits and root marks that serve as evidence of the age and authenticity of this example.