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Pre-Columbian Art :
Mayan Sculpture Molds : Mayan Sculpture Mold
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Mayan Sculpture Mold - PF.6100b
Origin: El Salvador
Circa: 300
AD
to 900
AD
Dimensions:
7.5" (19.1cm) high
x 2.125" (5.4cm) depth
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
$6,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
This work of art, an ancient sculptor’s mold,
grants us a unique insight into the creative
process of Mayan artists. Such a mold would
have been used in the fabrication of small
terracotta sculptures. Pressed into the wet clay,
the intricately carved pattern of the mold would
be replicated. The highly detailed pattern of the
interior belies the smooth, curved forms of the
abstract exterior. This particular mold replicates
the front half of an avian deity. He stands with
the form of a human body, but features the head
of an arch beaked bird, replete with a featured
headdress and decorative ear spools. It is also
likely that this mold depicts a priest or king
disguised as the avian god. His hands are joined
together just above his stomach where a belt and
loincloth cover his genitals. This little mold, as
functional as it is, even today, was once used to
create images of gods. That idols worthy of
worship could be created from this mold implies
that the mold itself has some inherent power.
Clearly, in the hands of a master sculptor, this
mold has the power to embody and give form to
the gods. Today, this mold is a relic of ancient
artistry, transplanted from an ancient Mayan
workshop into our hands, linking us directly with
the creative process of long forgotten sculptors.
- (PF.6100b)
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