The Maya in their great temple cities reached the
summit of the classical age in Ancient Meso-
America. 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 figures and
hieroglyphs. This cylindrical vessel is a fine
example of such creations. Decorated with warm
orange color and intricately painted figures and
glyphs, the vessel radiates with its subtle and yet
poignant beauty. It shows two Mayan dignitaries
seated in throne-like seats, facing each other,
their hand gestures indicate that they are
communicating, and the column of hieroglyphs
between their hands seem to show the content of
their discussion. The high status of the
dignitaries are suggested by their elaborate
headdresses, large earspools, and the fancy
costumes. Moreover, the fluid, gesture lines
which define the figures and the hieroglyphs
successfully show the distinct Mayan physical
characteristics such as the heavy-lidded eyes,
hooked nose, and fleshy lips. As we look into this
vessel, we feel as if we are standing in a Mayan
village, watching two honorable dignitaries.
Hundreds of years after the vessel's creation, we
still appreciate its beauty that is sure to last for
ages to come.
- (PF.3477)
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