Much like some believe ancient spirits continue to haunt the earth long after their death, sacred objects continue to retain their spiritual powers, accumulated through centuries of reverence, long after the civilization that created them fades into oblivion. This object is one such example. Originally, this vessel was probably used for the consumption of a Mayan concoction made from cacao and chilies. A scene of a shaman or ruler figure decorates both sides of the body. Painted in a light orange and red hue, this seated figure wears an extravagantly ornate plumed headdress and costume. The feathers create an interesting visual pattern of orange lines and red dots. The upper rim of the vessel is adorned with a band of pseudo-glyphs that extend between the small handles. The ovular shape of the bowl looks like a truncated egg. The smoothness of the form is a wonder in and of itself considering that the Mayans did not conceive of the potter’s wheel. This vessel is spectacular, not just for the splendid paintings, but also for the mastery of the potted form.