Carved Column
Culture
Ancient Maya
Date800–900 CE
Mediumhard crystalized limestone
Dimensions175.3 x 61 cm (69 x 24 in.)
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineMuseum Purchase
Object number1962.1
Label TextThe Maya have a long tradition of carving limestone. During the Classic period (200-900 C.E.), they erected stelae (tall stone monuments) and other sculptures to depict their rulers, often accompanied by a glyphic text naming them and their accomplishments. Stone works were carved periodically to celebrate moments in the life of a king or queen.
Here, the sculptor placed emphasis on the military status of the king. He wears an apron often associated with warfare and holds a knife made from obsidian (volcanic glass) in his right hand, and a shield on his left wrist. The figure also has multiple attributes which identify him as a Maya ruler: an elaborate headdress with tall feathers; a heavy necklace with three large bar pendants, likely made of greenstone; and sandals which covers his heels. Below him stand two men of small stature. People exhibiting dwarfism are commonly depicted as court attendants in ancient Maya civilization. Many scholars believe that these individuals, often associated with royal and religious figures, were considered to have mystical powers and erudite qualities in ancient Mesoamerica.
This carved column comes from the Yucatán Peninsula, where many Maya people migrated at the end of the Classic period around the 8th and 9th century C.E. Another sculpted column, now at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (1978.412.88), is almost identical to this one. Together they likely formed a pair that was once painted and placed within an architectural setting—perhaps flanking a doorway.
Provenanceoriginally from the state of Campeche, Mexico; entered the United States of America by Sheraton Warehouse, 614 West 19th Street, NYC, Consumption Entry 88754; purchased by the Worcester Art Museum, December 19, 1961.On View
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