Rattle in the Form of a Mythological Figure Possibly 650 - 800

Editor: This ceramic sculpture, “Rattle in the Form of a Mythological Figure,” possibly dates from 650 to 800 and is currently held at the Art Institute of Chicago. Its elongated form is striking, almost comical, and the figure’s arms perched on its bulbous stomach give it an odd sort of gravity. What do you see in this piece, in terms of cultural meaning and symbolism? Curator: The form speaks volumes, doesn’t it? The large belly can be a symbol of abundance or fertility. But the figure’s pose – arms braced, stern expression – brings to mind images of warriors or rulers from Maya art. A rattle itself is an interesting symbol. Is it a call to assembly or war, perhaps a representation of the creative word that brings existence into being? Its sound becomes intrinsically linked with the power of the figure. Editor: So the sound it makes would have been part of its symbolic meaning? Curator: Precisely. Think of ritual performance, a kind of theater enacting myth. What kind of presence would this have in that context, as both sculpture and sound instrument? Imagine it accompanying narratives, drumming, dance – shaping communal experiences and affirming social bonds. Editor: It's interesting to think of this object as activating collective memory, connecting people through story and ritual. It goes far beyond just a musical instrument. Curator: Exactly. We can explore how cultural memory becomes embodied in these forms and sounds. In essence, how people construct and transmit their worldview through the art they create and experience. Editor: I definitely have a better sense now of how intertwined the object’s form and sound were within Maya culture.