Watch List notes:

Maya Underworld Swimmers. A large Maya Underworld Swimmers bowl from El Tazumal, El Salvador, ca. 550 - 900 AD. This flat-bottom example is 8-1/4" diameter and is 3-1/2" deep. The two Underworld figures are exceptionally well detailed and are topped with a band of finely drawn Copador glyphs. The interior has a band of large Copador glyphs around a complex solar design. Painted overall in red, orange, black and brown over cream slip. The theme of this type of vessel is thought to relate to the story in Maya mythology recounting the journey of the Hero Twins Hunahpu and Xbalanque through Xibalba, the Maya Underworld. In good condition, with mineral deposits and trails and typical restored stress fracture. Ex Tribal Treasures Gallery. Cf. Peter Schmidt "Maya", page 646, for similar example.