Mixtec Red-on-Cream Tripod Rattle Bowl

Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Mixtec, ca. 1200–1521 CE. A shallow earthenware tripod bowl with a wide, flaring rim, set on three hollow, slightly bulbous feet that hold loose pellets. The feet still rattle when the bowl is moved. The interior has a pale cream slip painted in brick red. A plain central medallion is ringed by short radiating strokes, and seven arched, hatched lobes open outward from it like the petals of a rosette, probably a flower or solar motif. A band of vertical dashes, loops, and short bars runs below a red-painted lip. Vessels on rattle supports joined sound to service: whatever was presented in the bowl came with a soft clatter. This suggests a ceremonial or offering use, though such dishes may also have served at the table. Size: 3" H x 8.6" Diam (7.6 cm H x 21.8 cm Diam). Hollow rattle supports were common on Postclassic Mesoamerican serving vessels. Small clay pellets were sealed inside the feet before firing, so the dish made a sound whenever it was lifted or set down. Flowers and the sun were central images in Postclassic religious thought across central and southern Mexico, and both are linked to offerings, sacrifice, and the renewal of life. A rosette at the center of a serving dish fits easily within that tradition. Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection; ex-estate of Dr. Adolfo Gonzalez, Houston, Texas, USA, acquired 1985 to 2005 SHIPPING: We coordinate worldwide shipping in-house through specialist international forwarders experienced with fine art and antiquities customs manifests. International buyers must confirm, prior to bidding, that their country's customs authority will accept the item. All duties, taxes, clearance fees, and any costs arising from customs delays, seizures, re-export, returns, or loss in transit are the buyer's sole responsibility. Artemis assumes no liability for items refused entry, detained, or lost after export. We cannot ship ancient items to their country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.).For those not using LiveAuctioneers' Live Ship program, Artemis Fine Arts offers expert in-house packing and worldwide shipping. With over 20 years of experience, our team provides careful, reliable, and affordable service. For a quick quote on this lot, please contact support@artemisfinearts.com prior to the auction, or call 720-890-7700. PAYMENT EXCEPTION: For clients not previously established with Artemis, payment for all gold, precious metal, and gemstone lots must be made by bank wire transfer or certified bank check/money order, without exception. Item # 205740

Condition
Professionally repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines. Weathering and abrasions to surface as shown. Otherwise, nice presentation with good remaining decoration. Still functions as a rattle.