The belief that material possessions can "travel" with a spirit into the afterlife is a fundamental part of many cultures, most notably the ancient Egyptians and the Maya.
In both societies the nobility and wealthy individuals were entombed with their most precious objects, the pieces that meant most to them aesthetically and functionally. The Maya loved beautiful things, whether it was on a monumental scale such as their fabulous pyramids, or elaborate costumes or domestic items. They understood and appreciated refinement in design, glorious color and elegant simplicity. These admirable qualities are seen in this lovely bowl. It is both a container and a representation of the vegetables it may have contained. The delicately curved sides and bulging middle resemble that of a calabaza, pumpkin or squash. The intense orange red color is also like gourds at certain stages of ripeness. Seeing and touching this bowl recalls delectable times in a kitchen rich in laughter and heavenly aromas. It is no wonder a wealthy person wished to take this bowl along with him in his journey into the world of spirit.