Animals of all kinds appear frequently in Mayan Art. Sometimes these creatures are denizens of the natural world, the wildlife of the Mayan Empire depicted with realism and humor. In other instances, animals are shown in anthropomorphic poses, imitating the actions and foibles of men, as creatures in fable. Still others are possessed of divine status, having power over the fate of man and his universe.
This superb vessel depicts two engraved representations of a divine monkey who appears to be either speaking aspects of the natural world into existence or as his portly belly suggests, devouring them. The pictures are separated by a column of further decorative engravings. The Monkey deity carries himself with enormous dignity, as if privy to the wisdom of the ages. His upright position and outstretched uplifted arms command an air of authority, but we are also charmed by his coiffure and simian grace.

The vase is further decorated by a ridge around its circumference at the top third of the piece at which point flaring emanating from, its terracotta and black coloring and slightly convex base.

This item has been carefully restored since the taking of the pictures on the website.