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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Mayan Musical Instruments : Mayan Molded Whistle Depicting a Demon Deity
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Mayan Molded Whistle Depicting a Demon Deity - PF.1413
Origin: Campeche, Mexico
Circa: 600
AD
to 900
AD
Dimensions:
7.25" (18.4cm) high
x 4.75" (12.1cm) wide
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
Location: UAE
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| Description |
It is difficult to say whether this elaborately
costumed demon represents an imaginary
monster or simple a priest in disguise. Mayan
art is full of such ambiguities: the boundaries
between the temporal world and that of the
spirits are frequently blurred. Little distinction
was made between the mythic and the tangible.
This particular deity appears to be a jaguar God;
though his mouth is open with protruding
tongue, this is most likely a gesture of
benevolent protection, meant to frighten away
evil. Traces of bright blue pigment stll adorn
this whistle, blown during religious festivals. Its
rich, melancholy tone evokes the glories of a
fantastic vanished world.
- (PF.1413)
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