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Pre-Columbian Art :
Mayan Sculpture Molds : Mayan Sculpture Mold
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Mayan Sculpture Mold - PF.6099
Origin: El Salvador
Circa: 300
AD
to 900
AD
Dimensions:
2.5" (6.4cm) high
x 2" (5.1cm) depth
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
$1,500.00
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 soft curves of the abstract
exterior. This particular mold replicates the face
of an animal, most likely a monkey. The large
ears and deeply recessed eyes of this creature
are immediately visible in the negative image of
the mold. Also readily apparent, is the
protruding tongue that hangs over the exposed
teeth of the grimacing mouth. This face would
have presumably been attached to a larger body
while still wet. It is possible that a generic body
was used for several different faces; it is also
possible that a specific body was intended to be
joined with this face only. This little mold, as
functional as it is, was once used to create
images of gods. That sacred 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 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.6099)
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