Pre-Columbian, El Salvador, Mayan, Copador, ca. 550 to 900 CE. A classic example from this distinctive Mayan region, a bowl decorated on its exterior with three large, full-bodied birds - probably macaws, an important Mayan luxury good - and one profile bird head. The base is incised with a fluted motif. The interior is painted with four alternating black and red pseudo-glyphs that are set within thick red borders that form concentric rings below the rim and around the center of the bowl. In tondo is a cross-shaped design that neatly divides the bowl into four quadrants. Size: 7.5" W x 3.05" H (19 cm x 7.7 cm)

Copador pottery was manufactured at Copan and traded widely throughout the southern Maya region. This particular style was created by artisans specifically 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 Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA collection

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#133118

Five tiny (less than .5") areas of overpaint on the interior. Otherwise intact, with nice deposits, especially on the exterior. Motifs are exceptionally clear.