The complex patterns found on Maya vessels have a hypnotic quality of holding the viewer transfixed. Whether an elaborate ritual scene is depicted, a series of glyphs, or an intricate design such as on this delightful vessel, there is always a sense something extraordinary is going on; which we, as privileged observers, are just on the verge of discovering. Circling this handsome bowl is an incised pattern probably connected with Maya mythology. It is so intricate, with such a floral sense, it almost seems to radiate color, swirling around the bowl as if possessing its own energy. The incising gives the impression of the famous Maya mural reliefs. There is a sense we are seeing more than is actually there. Suddenly a bird appears, clouds in the sky, puffs of smoke, an exotic flower or gorgeous plants, come and go before our eyes. They may be intended as realistic images, or as pure illusion. In any case, they are part of the story this lovely bowl is telling us.