Incense Burner Lid
Dateca. 600-900
Mediumpottery
DimensionsOverall: 9 5/8 x 4 1/2 x 4 in. (24.4 x 11.4 x 10.2 cm)
ClassificationsContainers
Credit LineGift of Dr. and Mrs. Allan A. Kaplan
Object number80.0125
DescriptionThis representation of a female deity with jaguar characteristics is the mold-made lid to a larger vessel that would have allowed billowing clouds of smoke to swirl up and around the deity image. The bare breasts of this goddess are visible, as are her facial tattoos and elaborate ear ornaments. The female creator deity, Chak Chel, is sometimes shown with clawed hands and feet to indicate her connection with this fierce animal. It is thought that the jaguar may have been one of her animal alter egos.
