Mastery of any art form requires time, talent and
creativity. In the case of ancient art forms, the
artist most often required a command of the
philosophies, calendar system and history of his
or her culture, as well. Thus, the ancient artist of
the Maya who created and painted this fine
vessel was not only an artist, but also probably
one of the most educated citizens in society.
There are three evident sections comprising this
vessel. The upper portion is filled with an
exciting creature, unknown to our contemporary
knowledge that is shown in repetition. The
upper and lower portions are divided by a "fish
net" design, which flows into the design below.
The lower portion is filled with a rather esoteric
design. The numerous dot notations may be
related to time. It has been well established that
the Maya were obsessed with time and their
calendar system. Another idea may lead us to
believe that the lower portion is corn and the net
is protecting the corn from invading insects
depicted on the upper portion. As mysterious as
this painted vessel may be, one thing is for
certain; this distinctively Maya art form captures
our imagination and admiration with its beauty
and rarity.
- (PF.4014)
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