Small ceramic flasks have been found throughout the Maya region. These containers typically held tobacco and in some cases, lime as well. This particular flask was found on the platform just outside of the doorway to a well-built stone structure known as J56. While we normally find undecorated flasks, this one has text on both sides. The text reads roughly as: “It is presented” on one side, and on the other, is a large “ahau” glyph – ahau is a title/rank attached to rulers or lords.

Pottery vessel for drinking. This particular vessel was found at the feet of an individual buried in Structure J22.

Ceramic figurines of humans, animals, and supernaturals are common in the residential groups of Palenque. This particular figurine is the Sun God, or K’inich Ahau, a principle deity of Palenque.

Among the many figurines found in Palenque’s homes, figurines such as this one depict animals that made up the Maya world. Dogs were highly regarded both as companions and as food.