Plate in the Form of a Jaguar with Interior Painted with Floral-Like Motif Possibly 200 - 700

This plate in the form of a jaguar was made by the Maya people using ceramic. The jaguar held profound significance in Mayan culture, symbolizing power, strength, and the supernatural. It was a guardian spirit, a creature of both the earthly and spiritual realms. This plate is more than just utilitarian; it embodies the Mayan worldview, where nature, the cosmos, and human life are interconnected. The jaguar, depicted with a floral-like motif within the plate, suggests a harmonious relationship between the animal and plant kingdoms, reflecting the Maya's deep understanding of their environment. Whether used in ritual ceremonies, elite feasts, or as offerings to the gods, this plate speaks to the cultural richness and artistic skill of the Maya civilization. It is a potent reminder of how art can encapsulate a society's beliefs, values, and relationship with the world around them.