Stela
SEE IT IN PERSON
● On view now — Gallery 161
Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
Maya royals were portrayed on stone monuments like this one, which they erected in public spaces within their cities. These sculptures marked major dynastic events including enthronements, marriages, military triumphs, and deaths. Although the elaborately dressed figure on this stela is currently unidentified, the hieroglyphic text on the left side of the stone marks the date: January 20, 702. We do not yet know what event was being recorded, but this date was likely significant for Maya peoples because it was the end of a ten-year period, or Lahuntun, similar to a decade.
Be the first to share your thoughts.
Sign in to join the discussion.
More by Maya
More like this
Aztec (Mexica) — Head of Xilonen, the Goddess of Young Maize
Aztec (Mexica) — Coronation Stone of Motecuhzoma II (Stone o
Mural Fragment with Elite Male and Maguey Cactus Leaves
Veracruz, Classic — Dancing Figure Wearing Animal Headdress 
Nopiloa — Figure of a Standing Warrior
China — Fragment of Spatula (Si)
China
Reportedly found in Shaanxi province — Mask
Moche — Portrait Vessel of a Ruler with Face Paint and Large
Moche — Whistle in the Form of a Figure Wearing Large Headdr
Moche — Portrait Vessel of a Ruler with Mustache and Feather
Coclé — Nose Ornament in the Form of an Long-Nosed Saurian w
India
Rajasthan — Boar Incarnation of God Vishnu (Varaha) Li