Cloaked in mystery as dense as the tropical forests they resided in, the Ancient Maya hold a special fascination for all who experience the remnants of their rich, material culture. The Maya shaped an extraordinary, complex society in Meso-America when Europe was barely emerging from the dark ages. Marked by great achievements in art, mathematics and science, the Maya not only built soaring pyramids and magnificent temples but also created exceptional ceramics, whose distinct character and beauty remains on a par with the finest man has ever created. This remarkable avian vessel evidences the Maya artists' astounding ability to blend form and function into an integrated whole. With large eyes, ornamented ears and thick, curving beak, a turkey vulture faces us, his sculpted head imaginatively forming the neck and opening of a vessel. Two ring handles energetically sprout from the sides of his rounded body, giving the impression of outstretched wings. The avian's globular body which forms the main portion of the vessel is in perfect proportion with head and 'wings,' further affirmation of the artist's masterful talents. With spirit soaring, these Mayan ceramic avian flies effortlessly through the confines of time and space, heralding messages from the past. All that is needed of us is to listen closely to his ancient and mysterious songs.