Overview

Cups used for ceremonial drinking were mentioned as objects used in calendric rituals, however, the exact form of the cups was not described (Landa 1941: 147; Chase 1985: 121). At Zacpetén, they were roughly cylindrical in form or occasionally miniature pedestal vases. Ceramic cups were encountered with censers at Santa Rita Corozal, which also appear to have been associated with calendric rituals (Chase 1985: 121). Ceremonial drink is also offered to Lacandon god pots, but the cups used are perishable and vary according to the drink (Davis 1978: 114-115). Furthermore, the cups may be decorated with markings identifying them with a specific deity and if so, they are used to present offerings only to that being. When offered, they are placed in front of the god pots. While offering cups are small, the Lacandon believe the offerings appear large to the gods (Davis 1978: 115). Small drinking cups have been found at Mayapán (Smith 1971; 92-95), Santa Rita Corozal (Chase 1985: 121), Topoxté (Bullard 1970: 294), Zacpetén, and other sites.