Pre-Columbian, Mayan Territories, ca. 6th to 9th century CE. A wonderful jade bead that is cleverly carved to depict a fish with drilled eyes, an open mouth, fins, and a fanned tail all finely delineated. The pendant is laterally drilled for suspension. In addition to the skillfully carved and string cut image, the stone itself is quite beautiful - of seafoam green and deep teal hues as well as white and black inclusions. Size: 2.5" L x 1.125" in diameter (6.4 cm x 2.9 cm)

Jade was revered by the Maya not only for its beauty, but also because it had spiritual power - it was believed to be the embodiment of the wind and the "breath" that formed the Maya soul. In addition, scholars argue that its color was associated with water and vegetation. While the Maya used jade beads to create impressive jewelry, we also know that they placed jade beads in the mouths of the dead, perhaps as a means of extending the circle of life. Furthermore, many scholars have argued that the demand for jade contributed to the rise of long distance trading networks as well as the rise of urban centers in ancient Mesoamerica.

Provenance: private Illinois, USA collection

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#128636

Generally excellent. What may appear to be fissures are actually white inclusions in the stone.