Pre-Columbian, Mayan territories, El Salvador, Copador, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A striking handbuilt polychrome cylinder vessel - most likely used for the traditional cacao drink - decorated with a central register featuring four scribes seated in profile rendered in red and black on a beige ground as well as two narrower registers, above and below, with pseudoglyphs, several of which feature an abstract face that may have represented a deity or elite lord, finely painted in red and orange against the beige ground. Scribes played a vital role in the Mayan world, and they were minor royalty, with the ability to read and write. They had the power to immortalize a king or queen through their writing, documenting battles, religious favor, and political skill. Size: 4.875" in diameter x 6.125" H (12.4 cm x 15.6 cm)

Copador pottery was manufactured at Copan and traded widely throughout the southern Maya region. This particular style was created by artisans ispecifically for export, and was probably made to combine popular elements in Maya decoration to increase their value. By repeating certain styles, the artisans creating bowls like this reinforced ceremonial ideas. This is a fascinating piece of history that tells us a great deal about the Mayan economy and society!

Provenance: private D. C. collection, California, USA; D. C. is an Emmy Award winning Hollywood writer and Executive Producer, collected before 2000

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#126405

Repaired from multiple pieces with areas of restoration. Expected surface wear commensurate with age. Nice manganese deposits.