The summit of the classical age in Ancient Meso-
America 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 refined their skills to represent the
human form. Mayan figures very well depict the
distinct Mayan physical characteristics such as
the high cheekbones, fleshy and hooked nose,
heavy lidded eyes, and drooping lower lips. This
remarkably sculpted Mayan face displays such
attributes. The effigy vessel is a depiction of an
old man's face, possibly a representation of a
deity. The high cheekbones and hollowness of
the sunken cheeks are emphasized to show age
and wisdom. Moreover, the fleshy nose and the
protruding lower lip add dramatic feelings to the
face. As to symbolize years of experience and
acquired wisdom, stylized wrinkles give
sculptural form to the otherwise flat skin.
Wearing a pair of earspools, this elder man
appears to hold wisdom and knowledge that only
time and experience can bring. Whether he is a
deity or a respected dignitary in the Mayan
society, his dignity and honorable essence comes
through strongly. Looking at this sculpted image
is like looking into the face of an Ancient Mayan
who perhaps participated in rituals and
ceremonies in great temple cities.
- (PF.3423)
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