The Maya loved pageantry, elaborate costumes, dance and music. Their art is full of such images, of rituals where kings and priests performed highly complex ceremonies often in front of a huge crowd, followed by feasting and festivities. Musical performances would have been very important to stirring up the crowd and instruments such as this very adorable ocarina would have been used. With its six stops and mouthpiece, (cleverly using the animal's mouth), this is a serious instrument. When played properly it produces a soft, sonorous sound. The design is a paragon of whimsy and imagination, wonderfully highlighted by pale blue paint. The little animal is pure fantasy and delight, singing his heart out in a joyous song. Due to his immense charm he would have been suitable in a great gathering, or as a sweet instrument for a child. And he still sings as beautifully today as he did in the golden age of a vanished civilization! HT.19cm(7 1/2IN): L. 15cm(6IN)