The scene that wraps around the side of this
cylinder vessel is difficult to interpret. Long ago,
while the clay of this vessel was still wet, the
work was rolled across a mold, producing the
low-relief sculptural decoration. The scene
consists of two Mayan men, hunched over,
interacting with a giant mythological beast that
appears to have the attributes of several animals
including the hooves and body of a deer and the
face of a serpent. In addition, other smaller
snakes are visible. One is reminded of the Hydra
of Greek mythology that possessed the body of a
dog with seven serpent heads. While this
composite creature is fascinating in itself, even
more perplexing is attempting to uncover what is
the relation between this two men and the beast.
They do not appear to be attacking the beast, no
arms or armament are visible. Likewise, the
creature does not appear aggressive or
frightened by their appearance. Instead, they
almost appear to be luring the beast. One even
seems to be reaching towards it from behind,
perhaps even petting it. Might it be possible that
these brave men are attempting to capture this
creature? Might this vessel depict one of the
labors of a team of two ancient Mayan Hercules?
Unfortunately, since so little written records of
the Maya have survived, so much of their
undoubtedly rich mythology and fables have
been lost to us. This vessel, more than a sacred
container utilized in the ritual consumption of a
chocolate based drink, more than a gorgeous
work of art, more than a historical artifact from a
lost civilization, this vessel is a window into the
minds and mythology of the Maya, like a frame
from a movie or a comic book.
- (PF.6278)
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