This vivid sculpture personifies Pacal, founder of one of the most important Maya dynasties. Angel Ceron crafts this extraordinary replica of the sculpture found in Pacal's mausoleum in Palenque. Ceron's work is meticulous as he carefully details the facial features and elaborate headdress of this important Maya emperor.

Angel Ceron, the artist, comes from a family with generations of artisan experience. He learned the family ceramic techniques from his father, Antonio Ceron Orta, a renowned artisan. Angel began a long study of Mexico's pre-Hispanic cultures and learned the Nahuatl language spoken in ancient Mesoamerica.

Ceron uses clay from northern Oaxaca state, the only clay of this kind in Mexico and perhaps in the world. The unique characteristics of this yellow clay make it ideal for molding. It dries evenly and is especially hard, thus it is resistant to impact and can withstand very high temperatures. Once shaped, the sculptures dry as long as needed, some for as long as a week. They must dry in the shade because the clay might split and crack in the sun. Once dry, they are adorned with mineral pigments and high-fired at temperatures of up to 2,327 degrees F for eight to twelve hours, depending on the season (the kilns are located outdoors). After firing, the pieces need to stand for six hours, cooling gradually.

Finally, they receive a "bath" of earth to give them their unique antique effect, which features slight cracks.

dimensions: 4.5" W x 9.1" H x 5.5" D (11.5cm x 23cm x 14cm)