This work of art, an ancient sculptor’s mold, grants us a unique insight into the creative process of Mayan artists. Such a mold would have been used in the fabrication...
This work of art, an ancient sculptor’s mold, grants us a unique insight into the creative process of Mayan artists. Such a mold would have been used in the fabrication of small terracotta sculptures. Pressed into the wet clay, the intricately carved pattern of the mold would be replicated. The highly detailed pattern of the interior belies the smooth, flat form of the abstract exterior. This particular mold replicates the front half of a small creature, apparently a bat. Although no wings are visible, it is possible that they would have been replicated in another mold detailing the hindquarters. The face of this creature has been carefully detailed, complete with elongated nose, visible teeth, and large round ears. The ribs along his stomach are also visible. This little mold, as functional as it is, even today, was once used to create images of gods. That idols worthy of worship could be created from this mold implies that the mold itself has some inherent power. Clearly, in the hands of a master sculptor, this mold has the power to embody and give form to the gods. Today, this mold is a relic of ancient artistry, transplanted from an ancient Mayan workshop into our hands, linking us directly with the creative process of long forgotten sculptors.