Mayan Sculpture of a Seated God, 550 CE - 950 CE
Terracotta
12.25
PF.2391b
Sitting cross-legged with arms outstretched and stylized hands resting on his knees; this Ancient Mayan God evinces a power and authority that befits his role in Mayan culture. With head...
Sitting cross-legged with arms outstretched and stylized hands resting on his knees; this Ancient Mayan God evinces a power and authority that befits his role in Mayan culture. With head and torso in an erect and dignified pose, we sense immediately the magnetism inherent in this figure. A bold and daring face stares out at us, with open almond-shaped eyes, a classic Mayan nose and teeth that symbolize the ferocity of the revered jaguar. A striking headdress that hints at an avian motif, large ear spools and an ornamented collar frame this commanding face. Echoes of vivid coloring tantalize our imagination, begging us to envision this potent God with his entire original brilliant coloring. While the tones of red, blue and white may have softened through time; the vitality of spirit has in no way diminished in this masterpiece of Ancient Mayan art. His unearthly spirit still soars with the wings that frame his noble face.
Literature
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