Much of Mayan art was dedicated to the
glorification of their great priests, to their gods
and to their fabulous concept of time. In the
artistic expression of the myriad aspects of this
complex culture, the Mayan craftsmen excelled
in the ability to fit design, form and function in
such a way as to employ each component to its
maximum while at the same time achieving an
integrated aesthetic unity. This magnificent
polychrome cylinder vase is an extraordinary
example of this Mayan craftsmanship. Rendered
in the mural manner, a linear style that befits the
smooth vertical surface of the vase, the artist has
divided the vase into three vertical registers. The
banded top and bottom possibly exemplify the
Mayan's cylindrical expertise, for sacred scenes
are always accompanied by the writing of dates
and constellations that mark the event. These
calligraphic and linear bands form a natural
frame for the powerful images depicted in the
middle register. The priestly figures are
performing some ancient mythical ritual with the
aid of their assistants. Their spectacular
adornments include magnificent hair dresses
embellished with brilliant bird feathers,
decorated clothing and, adding to this powerful
visage, forceful serpent heads. What could be
the meaning of this sacred ritual? If only the
priests could reach across time and whisper their
secrets. Alas, they cannot. But this
extraordinary vase speaks, through the artistic
hand of the ancient Mayan who captured forever
his complex and evocative cultural heritage.
- (PF.2312)
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