The summit of the classical age in Ancient
Mesoamerica was reached by the Maya in their
great temple cities. In those temple cities, great
artistic expressions such as murals and
sculptures flourished. It is during this classical
period in which artists created magnificent
polychrome vessels, which depict various Mayan
gods, mythological animals and hieroglyphs.
This cylindrical vessel is a fine example of such
creations. Dressed in warm earthy colors and
decorated with intricately painted figures and
pictorial motifs, the vessel radiates with its
subtle and yet poignant beauty. The vessel shows
two mysterious, mythological animals wi1h
elaborate enhancements. Both creatures' faces
resemble birds with their large open beaks
revealing teeth. The elongated body shape and
the tail like structure, however, suggest that they
may be mythological serpents. Perhaps they are
avian-serpent beings or gods. One has a circular
structure with flame-like motifs in front of the
mouth, as if the animal is blowing out fire or
smoke. The middle portion of the body is
decorated with several coiling shapes and the
large tail is curved upward. Painted in similar
manner is the other mythical being which is
facing upward. The top portion is decorated with
a band of a repeating motif, and the bottom
portion depicts images that appear to be
bundled scrolls or reed. The Ancient Mayans
worshiped a myriad of gods and magical animals
and this vessel gives us a glimpse into such a
complex Mystical world. The fluid, gestural lines
create a distinct visual affect, leading our eyes
around the vessel, around each shape of the
pictorial depiction. Hundreds of years after the
vessel's creation, we still appreciate its beauty
that is sure to last for ages to come.
- (PF.3467)
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