Large Teotihuacan polychrome incensario Lid, Escuintla style, Classic, ca. A.D. 450-650

the high domed lid supporting the bust of the warrior with a brilliant red face and outstretched arms holding the flanges of the shrine facade, his face decorated with a butterfly nose ornament and wearing earrings, the massive headdress with adornos including the fringed rings of Tlaloc goggles, tasseled antennae, a curling proboscis, and trefoils of flowing water; extensively covered with pigment.

Repairs in numerous areas with some fill, as visible from reverse and front, the outer corners are rebuilt on the upper most band at back. Adornos generally good except restored ones include : the two outer fringed circles on top band of upper facade, tip of central plume on lower band, some feathers of the right antennae fringe.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The dramatic ritual censors of the Teotihuacan era provide a type of visual dictionary in the repeated adornos which embellish the lids. They were replaced and reglued in ancient times as needed, each representing broader themes such as fertility or warrior clans, and also acting as prayers for healing or good fortune. See the drawing of the Los Glifos mural, showing an elaborate censor with warrior face (Berrin and Pasztory 1993:136)