Vessel with mythical scene

7th–8th century
Not on view
Returned to lender
This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.
Mythical narratives explain how the gods magically transformed themselves to seduce young goddesses. Here, a youthful goddess is ensnarled by a large serpent that grows from the leg of the lightning god K’awiil. An old god emerges from the mouth of the serpent, and lunges for her. The accompanying hieroglyphic text refers to the birth of a god, likely the result of this encounter.


Vasija con escena mitológica
Guatemala o México
Siglo VII al VIII
Cerámica con engobe pintado

Algunos relatos mitológicos cuentan cómo los dioses se transformaban mágicamente para seducir a las diosas jóvenes. Aquí, una de ellas es atrapada por una enorme serpiente que emerge de la pierna de K’awiil, dios del rayo. De la boca del reptil surge un dios anciano que acosa a la mujer. La inscripción hace referencia al nacimiento de una divinidad que, probablemente, sea consecuencia de este encuentro.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Vessel with mythical scene
  • Date: 7th–8th century
  • Geography: Guatemala or Mexico
  • Culture: Maya
  • Medium: Slip-painted ceramic
  • Dimensions: H. 6 1/2 × Diam. 5 5/8 in. (16.5 × 14.3 cm)
  • Classification: Ceramics-Vessels
  • Credit Line: Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Anonymous gift
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing