This vessel is extremely interesting due to its
subject matter and the vivid way in which it has
been executed. The entire front of this vessel has
been sculpted into the shape of a man dressed
in ceremonial costume. In his hands he holds a
bowl that would contain an offering. The beaded
jewelry on his wrists and around his neck even
out the composition that includes an elaborate
headpiece wears. The polychrome colors in
subtle earth tones lend a special beauty and
artistry to the piece. The expressive face
demonstrates the skill of the artist and the
ability to create a true sense of realism. The
function of the vessel was for important
ceremonies, so not only was it functional but
also pleasing to the eye. Though we know a
great deal about the life and ceremonies that
took place at this time in Central America,
understanding the background of a work of art is
not always as easy, yet this adds a certain
amount of intrigue to the piece, as we try to
reconstruct the past with our imagination, and
give the piece a life of its own.
- (PF.4066)
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