King Chan-Bahlun (Bird-Jaguar) cast stone plaque with antique stone finish reproduction from the temple of the Foliated Cross, Palenque, Mexico. 692 A.D. This sculpture is a fragment of a larger scene that shows one of the ascention rituals of Chan-Bahlum to the throne of the city of Palenque. Chan-Bahlum is shown presenting the "Tialoc", a symbol of ritual bloodletting to the foliated tree of life. This scene occurs in Xibalba, the Maya underworld. Chan-Bahlum and his father Pacal were the most important kings of Palenque and their reign can be considered the golden period of Palenque during which the city became the most important religious and political center in the Yucatan. Chan-Bahlun was born in 635 A.D., ascended to the throne on 684 A.D. at the age of 48 and died in 702 A.D. This plaque depicts the Maya king in performing ritual rites.

Made of cast stone. Cast stone is a type of gypsum cement whose properties are much different from plaster of paris which is what most sculpture shops use. Unlike plaster, which is soft, light and weak, cast stone is hard, heavy and strong. Cast stone feels like, and is heavy like a real stone would be, which can be experienced as soon you try to lift it. This item has a hole or a hook in the back for easy wall hanging.

This item is also available in other color finishes - if you like other then the pictured finish, please chose from the pull down menu above. To see pictures of our cast stone finishes please visit our "Cast Stone Sculptures FAQ". There is no extra charge for any other finish you chose.

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Ancient Sculpture Gallery stands behind its merchandise. Returns are accepted within 30 days. You may exchange this item or receive a refund for your return, provided the item is returned undamaged in original condition.