Monkey were more than wild inhabitants of the jungle to the ancient Mayan, they were valued companions, kept within the home as domesticated pets. Charming and amusing, much like the family dog, monkeys were cherished as a member of the family. As well, monkey played an important role in Mayan mythology and astrology. This charming vessel has been modeled into the from of a round monkey, naturally scratching his head. A spout emerging from the back of the vessel doubles as his tail while his arching arm doubles as a handle. His other arm rests at his side. His head emerges from the top of the body. A lip rises out of the top of his head where a small concave dish has been carved, perhaps for the placement of sacred substances and medicines. Maybe the monkey has been represented carrying a bowl on his head. His pierced ears suggest that this particular monkey was kept in the house. This vessel was discovered buried inside a tomb, revealing that it had an important ceremonial function both in this world and the next. Perhaps this effigy of a cherished pet was buried alongside its deceased owner as an eternal reminder of his beloved companion. While the precise meaning of this vessel remains elusive, we can easily delight in its charm much like the Mayan sculptor who created it over a thousand years ago would have done the same.