Pre-Columbian, Mayan Territories, Late Classic, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A smooth taupe colored limestone maskette pendant in the form of a human head with facial features carved to look aged. This is probably the physiognomy of God L, with the high forehead, closed eyes, furrowed cheeks, sunken and open mouth, and scrolling and pierced ears. It is drilled twice for suspension on the obverse side. Comes with custom stand. Size: 2.25" W x 3.2" H (5.7 cm x 8.1 cm); height on stand: 4.15" (10.5 cm).

God L is one of the old, "grandfather" deities of the Maya pantheon. He evinces jaguar traits, particularly at the ears, and is associated with trade. He is represented on a doorjamb in the inner sanctuary of Palenque's Temple of the Cross and also makes an appearance on one of the finest known Maya ceramics, the Princeton Vase, where he is seated on a throne in Xibalba. He is portrayed as a lively old man and the prominent Mayanist Michael Coe wrote in 1973 that, "God L rules the Underworld." This is a wonderfully detailed depiction of his face.

Provenance: Ex-Ron Messick Gallery acquired at Sotheby's NYC, Nov 24, 1997, lot 173

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#120207

Small areas of surface wear and deposits in lower profile areas; signs of use around drilled holes for suspension. Overall, features and details very vivid.