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Maya Pendant of an Enthroned King

Currency:USD Category:Art Start Price:1,000.00 USD Estimated At:4,000.00 - 6,000.00 USD
Maya Pendant of an Enthroned King
<B>Pendant of an Enthroned King</B></I><BR>Maya<BR>A.D. 550 - 800<BR>Jadeite, Weight 98 grams<BR>Height 3 3/4 in. Width 2 1/8 in.<BR><BR>Roughly long oval in outline, this thin jadeite pendant shows an enthroned king viewed from the front. The requirements of jade-working technique force a number of simplifications which challenge interpretation. However, the strongest probability is that the ruler cradles in his arms an arched vision-serpent bar, below which is visible a double-band belt having a central emblem and bordered by pendant oliva shells. Hanging between the parted legs is the ruler's elaborate breechcloth. The headdress shows a frontal animal head with bared teeth and the curled eyes associated with several deities. Above this head feathers fan out from a central circular medallion. Three-part ear spools, a necklace, bracelets, and anklets complete the royal Maya regalia.<BR>Seen from the side, it is apparent that the ancient artist carefully selected a bright green jadeite layer lying atop a duller brownish-green layer; shallow saw marks suggest that he considered trying to separate this brighter layer from the rest, but rejected the idea. The piece is drilled through from side to side and from top to bottom.<BR><BR>Provenance<BR>Peter Wright, Florida (acquired 1970)<BR>Daniel M. Friedenburg Collection<BR>Sotheby's, New York: sale 7902, 15 May 2003, lot 298, p.192<BR><BR>