Pre-Columbian, Maya / Toltec, ca. 900 to 1200 CE. This is a "plumbate" pottery jar, a distinctive style of pottery from late Classic and early Postclassic Mesoamerica. Plumbate pottery is distinguishable by its uniquely shiny -- sometimes even iridescent -- glaze that has been fired at very high temperatures. This piece is a tripod rattle jar with with shiny black and a more matte deep red glaze. Around the shoulder is a decoration of what looks like radiating half suns and linear bands; on one side is a transformative human face with some animal features, notably a changing mouth and horns. The figure wears large earrings and has a mark down its forehead that may indicate tattooing or scarification. Plumbate ware was probably made by a very small number of artisans around the Mexico/Guatemala border who then exported them throughout wider Mesoamerica. You can shake this piece and still hear the rattles! Size: 7" H x 6-1/4" W (17.8 cm x 15.9 cm).

Provenance: Ex-private New Jersey collection acquired 1970's

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#111051

The piece is intact with expected wear and very minor chipping to the rim. The decoration is clear.