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 things, 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. Nowhere is this specialization more adeptly manifested than in Maya ceramic artwork. Here we experience a stunning example of this artistry in the form of a polychrome cylinder vessel, whose color and imagery immediately captivates our senses. Within the vase geometric patterns dance around the vessel's surface, their slender, rhythmic forms heightening the sense of movement. Meanwhile, on the outside surface of the vessel, elaborately rendered paired figures also perform an ancient Maya dance with bodies that criss-cross in a highly poetic manner. Bands of geometric patterns also work their way around outside surface of the vessel, artistically framing the dancing partners. Clearly, the detailed patterns and figures on this vessel reveal an art form truly outstanding, one that communicates powerfully with the modern world, while at the same time transmitting eloquently the life of the ancient Maya ln fascinating detail.