Much of Mayan art was dedicated to the
glorification of their great kings, priests, and
gods and to their remarkable concept of time.
Although some of the specific iconographic
meanings are still somewhat ambiguous in
Mayan art, much is known about the artistic
techniques of the Mayan craftsmen. This
extraordinary polychrome cylinder vase reveals
the characteristic pictorial techniques used by
the artists. Brushes, much like those of the
Chinese, were used for the line work in painting
as well as writing. In fact, the stunning
calligraphic line work on this Mayan vessel
clearly rivals that of the Chinese as a model of
one of the world's greatest calligraphic
traditions. The spontaneity of execution and the
lyrical rhythm of the lines and characters are
remarkable. The Mayan artist’s sensitivity to the
boundaries of the pictorial field is also
impressive in this vase, for glyphic bands
artistically frame the painted figural
composition. These framing bands not only
perform a stylistic function but also, through
their glyphic language, become harbingers of
information. Although the specific meaning of
the glyphs may be unclear to us, the
communicative power on an aesthetic level is
quiet compelling. Clearly, the artworks of the
Maya stand as a testament to a culture whose
sensibilities are ageless in their ability to enthrall
us. HT. 21cm(8 1/4IN) : DIAM. 20.3cm(8IN)
- (PF.2545)
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