Vase with Six Figures and Glyphs

Exploring the Early Americas The Jay I. Kislak Collection

Pre-Contact America | Explorations and Encounters | Aftermath of the Encounter

Urban Landscapes | Ritual, Ceremonies, and Celebrations | Language and Context | Recording History | The Heavens and Time

White background vase with six figures and glyphs.
Guatemalan Lowlands. Maya, AD 600–900.
Polychromed ceramic.
Jay I. Kislak Collection, Rare Book and Special Collections Division, Library of Congress (9)
Photo ©Justin Kerr, Kerr Associates

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The principal figure on this vessel is a Maya ruler wearing an elaborately woven garment. He is seated on his throne and greets visitors. On his wrist he wears a jade bracelet and on his chest is a jade bead. Behind the ruler is an attendant, arms folded, and standing guard.