LADY K’ABEL

C.7TH CENTURY – C.8TH CENTURY

Lady K’abel was a queen regnant and a member of the Snake dynasty that ruled the ancient city of Calakmul. She married K’inich Bahlam II, a nobleman of lesser status, and they together ruled over the vassal town of El Perú-waka. Lady K’abel held the title of Ix Kaloomte (‘Lady Supreme Warlord’) which has led to speculation that she might have led troops into battle. In this surviving depiction of her, the queen wears an elaborate costume that reflects her status.