Incesario with male head form Maya, Mexico, Classic P., 250 - 900 AD Terracotta and pigments 19,5 cm height, 22 cm diameter and 31,5 cm long. PROVENANCE: - Private collection, Paris, France. 1960 - 1980. - Thence by descendent. Condition: Good, see photos. Documents: With Spanish Import / Export license. The Maya civilization flourished in Mesoamerica from around 2000 BCE until the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century. Its territory included present-day southern Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. The Maya are well known for their achievements in writing, astronomy, mathematics, and monumental architecture. However, their artistic traditions, especially in terracotta figures and decorated bowls, also reveal much about their religious beliefs and daily life. In the Maya civilization, terracotta censers played a central role in religious and ceremonial life. These incense burners, often called incensarios, were used to burn copal resin and other aromatic substances as offerings to the gods. The rising smoke was believed to carry prayers and petitions to the spiritual realm, creating a sacred connection between humans and divine forces. Maya terracotta censers were frequently elaborately decorated. Many were modeled with the faces of deities, especially the rain god Chaac or the sun god Kinich Ahau. Others featured symbolic motifs such as serpents, jaguars, flowers, and celestial signs. Some censers were large and cylindrical, while others had lids shaped like temples or divine figures. Their detailed craftsmanship demonstrates the high level of artistic skill achieved by Maya artisans. These objects were commonly used in temples, public plazas, and household shrines. In major cities such as Palenque and Tikal, archaeologists have discovered numerous censers in ritual contexts. Beyond their practical function, they symbolized purification, renewal, and communication with the supernatural world, reflecting the deep spirituality that characterized Maya culture.