A rare and exceptional Maya Decorated Jaguar Tooth Pendant, Classic Period, ca. 500 - 800 CE

This powerful pendant is carved from the upper canine of a jaguar, the most venerated predator in the ancient Maya world. The upper section is worked in raised interlocking relief, composed of scrolls and mask-like elements arranged in layered registers. These abstract forms reflect the visual language of Maya iconography, symbolizing themes of transformation, protection, and the dual nature of the jaguar as both a ruler and night-sun avatar.

The tooth retains its natural curvature and color toward the tapered point, while the surface above exhibits careful, controlled carving that reflects light in both deep and shallow planes. The original suspension perforation broke in antiquity, so the pendant is now fitted with a modern 14K gold cap and a 14K gold chain for wear.  Evidence of restoration can be seen near the suspension area, which has been intentionally left unfinished, while the remainder of the piece remains intact, showcasing appealing age and mineral toning.

Carved jaguar-tooth pendants are rare among known Maya adornments. The surviving examples are often linked to high-status individuals, ritual identity, or objects that serve as personal emblems of predatory strength and shamanic empowerment. Few pieces exhibit this level of craftsmanship, making this an exceptional and highly sought-after example.

Medium: Jaguar tooth (Dentin), gold 

Dimensions: Length: 2.375 ins (6.03 cm) Strung on a modern 20" chain of 14K yellow gold. 

Condition: The original suspension perforation was broken in antiquity, resulting in a small loss to the upper area. This section has been partially filled and is now set into a modern 14K gold cap, allowing it to be worn again. The piece is otherwise intact, featuring a fine surface and excellent patina. An exceptionally rare and remarkable adornment from the elite Maya civilization. 

Provenance: This object comes from the noted collection assembled during the 1960s-80s by Justin Kerr and Dicey Taylor, pioneering scholars in the study of Maya art. Kerr is best known for developing rollout photography to document cylindrical vessels, an innovation that revolutionized the understanding of Maya narrative painting and epigraphy.