Warrior Vessel. A.D. 200-700. Earthenware with pigment. Funds from 1986 Collector's Choice. 1986.14A-B.

height: 10.25 in, 26.0350 cm; width: 6.25 in, 15.8750 cm; depth: 6.25 in, 15.8750 cm

Mayer Center, Arts of the Ancient Americas

Arts of the Ancient Americas

Warrior Vessel
Teotihuacán
About A.D. 200–700
Mexico, Puebla
Earthenware with pigment
Funds from 1986 Collectors’ Choice, 1986.14A&B

This warrior’s raised right hand may have once held a spear or atlatl darts.  Carved stone monuments in the Maya region portray warriors in Teotihuacan garb, suggesting that the great city’s military might was widely known and respected.  

Very thin, finely made orangeware pottery was highly prized at Teotihuacán; it seems to have been manufactured in Puebla for export to Teotihuacán.  This example is exceptionally complex and ornate.  Made in two parts, the vessel opens at the waist.

Purchased by Earl Stendahl [1887-1966], (Stendahl Galleries), Hollywood, CA, by mid 1960s; Private Collection, New Jersey; (Stendahl Galleries), Hollywood, CA; Purchased by the Denver Art Museum, 1986.