Two Mayan Painted Terracotta Mushroom Stones

Two Mayan Painted Terracotta Mushroom Stones

The larger 10 3/4 x 9 1/4 in. diam., the smaller 7 1/8 x 5 1/8 in. diam.

Note: The intake of hallucinogenic mushrooms in ritual ceremonies was popular among Mesoamerican cultures. Religious practices with sacred mushrooms extend from the Valley of Mexico to the rest of Central America, and they are thought to be at least 3500 years old. The Maya consumed k’aizalaj Okox, otherwise known as teonanàcatl to the Aztecs which is a psychedelic mushroom that has been used in Mesoamerican cultures. Archaeological evidence supports the consumption of psychedelic mushrooms through what is called ‘mushroom stones.’ These stones were often decorated with figures and were believed to have been used in an ancient hallucinogenic mushroom cult. Archaeologists dated their earliest appearance to approximately 1000 BC.

Property From the Estate of Thomas A. Cox

Sold Doyle, New York, October 13, 1998, Lot 93.
Condition Report: The tallest with numerous repairs and losses along the stem and base. Minor nicks and abrasions throughout. The smaller vessel with losses along the base, abrasions and lacking painted top. Both with a mud-like surface residue throughout. Decoration worn on both.

Not withstanding this report or any discussion concerning condition of a lot, all lots are offered and sold "as is" in accordance with our conditions of sale.