Conveyers of cultural information as well as
beautiful objects in their own right, Mayan
artworks such as this extraordinary carved
ceramic vessel are imbued with a power and
spirit that is truly monumental. Although the
glyphic language of Mayan art is relatively
foreign to us, it nevertheless conveys not only
the visual beauty of the individual Mayan glyphs
that surround the outer surface of the vessel, but
also the tactile sensations of the glyphs’ raised
relief. A further addition to the beauty of the
vessel can be seen in the dramatic display of
light and shadow that results from these raised
images. As our mind’s eye contemplates the
wonder and meaning of glyphs on the vessel we
are also drawn to the striking pair of masked
figures who sit cross-legged, opposite each
other on the vase. With a vulture’s eye they stare
at us, privy to secrets of their culture that we will
never know. The flat, smooth surfaces that
separate these masked figures give a subtle
sense of balance and proportion to the vessel, a
feature that is characteristic of Mayan art. It is
evident from this striking vessel that Mayan art
communicates powerfully with the modern world,
while at the same time transmitting in eloquent
detail the life of the Ancient Maya in all its
fascinating detail.
- (PF.2647)
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