Panel 3 of Piedras Negras (no base)

myminifactory

Panel 3 stands as a testament to Classic Maya sculpture's artistic refinement and aesthetic conception, showcasing unparalleled craftsmanship. Commissioned by the 7th ruler, it commemorates K'atun's jubilee of his father, Ruler 4, verified by other members of the royal family, local nobles, and Yaxchilán visitors. The composition, framed within a hieroglyphic border, consists of three groups of human figures. At its center, Ruler 4 presides, seated on a throne, with his entire headdress adorned in quetzal feathers and ornaments adorning his belt and loincloth intricately woven from canvas. His right arm, now lost, likely stretched upwards, while his left hand rests on the edge of the throne. Behind him lies a jaguar skin cushion and in the background, the back of the throne is carved with iconographic motifs. To the ruler's right are four standing human figures: two infant princes, possibly the future Ruler 7 and Moo Ahk Chak of La Mar, accompanied by two adult courtiers bearing the titles "wise" and "librarian." The group on the left consists of three standing noblemen carved in high relief, presenting their hands crossed on their chests in a gesture of reverence towards the ruler. The nobleman closest to the king may be Yoaat B'alamli, a ruler of Yaxchilán, who appears to have been exiled in Piedras Negras. Below the throne lies a row of seven sajalob, secondary lords, seated in profile, sculpted with perfect proportions. It is almost certain that each wore headdresses; the character nearest the central front part of the throne has an elongated bill heron's head. Unfortunately, the heads of the other figures before it are destroyed, but it is probable that they were carved in full rounded on top of the depression forming the throne. The extensive inscription consists of 158 hieroglyphs divided into 14 groups, with six dates spanning eight years. In conclusion, the death of Governor 4 is mentioned in 757 AD, his funeral two days later in front of the temple O-13, and Ruler 7's re-entry to his tomb in 782 AD. This object can be downloaded at its base here. This object is part of "Scan The World". Scan the World is a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory, through which we are creating a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from across the globe for the public to access for free. Scan the World is an open-source community effort; if you have interesting items around you and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can participate.