Maya Redware Carved Bowl, possibly Gulf Coast region, Late Classic, circa AD 550 - 950

Klaus G. and Amelia B. Perls, New York (inv. no. P8487 and inv. no. 12532)

Sotheby's, New York, May 16, 1995, lot 144, consigned by the above

Private Collection, New York, acquired after the above sale

Sotheby's, New York, May 14, 2004, lot 171, consigned by the above

Acquired at the above auction

This thin-walled vessel of deeply rounded form shows the influence of Teotihuacan ceramics. It is carved with three cartouches of an elaborately clothed dignitary in various postures; in one, he holds a rodent offering; in another, he grasps a bird (perhaps a scepter) in his oversized hands; and the last shows only his bust, with hands raised.