Mayan Hollow Figurine, 500 CE - 900 CE
Terracotta
3.375 x 4.75
PF.2601
Further images
All remnants of the distant past are romantic. However Ancient Maya civilization has a special fascination, for it is a 'Lost' civilization whose secrets lie deep in the mysterious tropical...
All remnants of the distant past are romantic. However Ancient Maya civilization has a special fascination, for it is a "Lost" civilization whose secrets lie deep in the mysterious tropical forests. It is a civilization with, among other attributes, an extraordinary array of monumental art and architecture, a complex writing system, an elaborate body of astrological science, and a variety of occupational artisans whose technical skill and creativity was nothing less than phenomenal. This spirited ceramic rattles in the form of a figurine reveals this creativity in a fascinating manner. As we experience a delight in viewing this diminutive figure, we also feel a subtle but powerful force emerging from within him. Haunting, slivered eyes stare out at us while at the same time an open mouth attempts to speak of ancient mysteries. The juxtaposition of simple charm and complex transcendent power makes this figurine an incredibly dramatic work of Maya art...one that communicates instantly with modern world, while at the same time discloses a portion of Ancient Maya life.