The round body of the vessel takes on the form of a frog, a Mayan symbol of fertility. The face of the frog protrudes from the contours of the vase,...
The round body of the vessel takes on the form of a frog, a Mayan symbol of fertility. The face of the frog protrudes from the contours of the vase, complete with bulging round eyes, indented nostrils, and a wide, grinning mouth. The large legs of the frog are painted red and only slightly project outward. A small bump signifies the hind, further accentuated by rotating black slashes similar to the rays of the sun. The body of the vessel is decorated with a series of small black dots, probably imitating the pattern of the frog’s skin. Small cross-hatched diamond shapes are interspersed throughout. The neck of the vessel is painted with a band of glyphs, which if translated, might explain the significance of the frog effigy. The lip is highlighted with red paint that extends into the interior rim. Overall, this vase delightfully conforms the characteristics of the frog to the shape of the container.