A Rare maya figure of a captive, Jaina, Late Classic, ca. A.D. 550-950

the high-ranking captive suspended from the pierced skin of his back, still clothed in a regal attire of short cape and loincloth, the ear ornaments replaced with long paper and feather elements, his coiffure with plait curling to the front, his brave expression with moustache and nose ornament.



 

Andre Emmerich Inc.

Acquired from the above in 1980

Princeton, Jaina Figurines,  A Study of Maya Iconography, The Art Museum, Princeton University, May 3-June 29, 1975

Mary Ellen Miller, Jaina Figurines, A Study of Maya Iconography, Princeton University Art Museum, 1975, fig. 19, pg. 50, illus.

Overall excellent, thin and clean break and repair at right knee and right elbow. Has restored tip of right tie of cape, old loss of left thumb.
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.

This unique Jaina figure dramatically depicts the early stages of the ceremonial capture of an elite prisoner. While other Jaina prisoner figures are shown in an agonized and naked state, this important dignitary was memorialized before his accoutrements of status were striped away. See Miller and Martin (2004: pl. 97), for a Jaina captive with such ear ornaments, also ibid (pls. 98 and 100) for stone monuments of captives.
Ritual and actual warfare were constant aspects of Maya society, with alliances and power bases of the city states in frequent flux.