Ceremonial drinking vessel c. 13th century

This 13th-century Olmec ceremonial drinking vessel, made of ceramic, is a testament to the artistic skill of the ancient Olmec people. The vessel's simple, yet elegant, form, characterized by its wide, rounded base and gently sloping sides, suggests a deep understanding of the material properties of clay. This object, now residing in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, would have been used in ritual ceremonies, serving as a symbol of status and power, reflecting the rich cultural practices of the Olmec civilization.