Tripod Vase with Incised Motifs

CultureMaya

OriginRio Azul, Peten, Guatemala

PeriodEarly Classic Period (250/300-600 CE)

Date350-450

MediumEarthenware, black slip, post-fire "Maya blue" pigment, and hand-built.

DimensionsOverall: 21 x 20.7 x 20.7 cm (8 1/4 x 8 1/8 x 8 1/8 in.)

DescriptionMaya carved black ware cylindrical tripod vase with Teotihuacam influence, Early Classic period. Four carved and incised diagonal bands rubbed with original red cinnabar on the side of the vessel represent the Bearded Dragon, basically a reptilian monster with a supraorbital plate, upturned spout, prominent fangs, and a beard. There are four distinct iconographic forms of the Bearded Dragon on this vessel, each band represents one form. The four representations indicate the four cardinal directions of the world. Also the Bearded Dragon is the same creature who appears on the so-called Ceremonial Bar of Maya stelae, held by rulers as a royal symbol. Original mint green stucco band at the rim and base of vessel. The feet are hollow and round and contain rattles. There are similar rattles on the sides of the vase. An incised chevron band near the base completes the object.

Credit LineGift of George and Helen Gardiner

Object numberG83.1.132

Classifications

Ancient Americas

Sub-classification

Mesoamerica

Collections

Status

On view