Dancing into Dreams: Maya Vases of the Ik’ Kingdom is now on view at the Princeton University Art Museum through February 17, 2013. Unlike some of the other broad installations of Maya art that are being staged this year, this exhibition focuses solely on the painted chocolate-drinking cups from one Maya site located in present-day Guatemala. Ik’ ceramics are characterized by their rich natural colors, veristic portraiture, skillful rendition of graceful movement, and elegantly fluid calligraphy. Dancing into Dreams uses this artistic microcosm to elucidate the courtly politics and dynastic history of the Ik’ Kingdom.              

View the exhibition's official website.

Information and images courtesy of the Princeton University Art Museum

Maya: Secrets of Their Ancient World

Entering its final week at the Royal Ontario Museum is the major showcase Maya: Secrets of Their Ancient World. This groundbreaking exhibition features 250 artifacts that take visitors on a remarkable journey through the history, art, and puzzling collapse of the Maya civilization. A collaborative effort between the ROM, Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History and the Canadian Museum of Civilization, this exhibition explores the entire world of the Maya, from the rule of kings and queens to the lives of everyday people.

Visit the official website.

Incensario stand depicting the Jaguar God of the Underworld  -  Late Classic Period, 600–900 AD

Reclining figure gazing into a mirror  -  Late Classic Period, 600–900 AD

Jade mask  -  Late Classic Period, 600–900 AD

Incensario stand with the head of a noble  -  Classic Period, 250–900 AD

Vessel with iguana/jaguar/human hybrid  -  Classic Period, 250–900 AD

Information and images courtesy of the Royal Ontario Museum