Mayan Plate Elevated on a Tripod, 300 CE - 900 CE
Terracotta
10.625 x 3.5
PF.5553
Further images
This plate stands upon three legs outlined in black and highlighted in red. The exterior panel is decorated with various abstract colored blocks. The most elaborate image appears to be...
This plate stands upon three legs outlined in black and highlighted in red. The exterior panel is decorated with various abstract colored blocks. The most elaborate image appears to be a black face (complete with slanted nose and pupils) above a red rectangular shape and a black cross-hatched pattern. A black band encircles the bottom and a red band the top. A large red circle fills the center of the plate surrounded by a thin black circle. A thicker black band has been painted on the inner edge. Alternating pairs of black and red rectangles emphasize the lip of the dish. Even the bottom of the plate has been decorated. Triangular shapes fill the space between the legs while the center is occupied by a circular motif. The join of the feet and the plate are marked by red slashes encircled by a black arch. As a whole, this dish would have certainly been used only for the most important occasions or ceremonies like one’s fine China is used today.