Ik'

This is a window at the Mayan site of Palenque. It's also an Ik', a glyph that means wind, but really something closer to the Chinese concept of Chi.

There's more spirit in it; more life force; more vital energy.

These windows are scattered all through the palace at Palenque. They also appear in the ruins at Piedras Negras, and other sites in the Mayan world.

Pakal, Palenque's heavy hitter, was buried in a jade mask that had an Ik' between his lips.

I've written a little bit about the Ik' before »

gone glyphin'

Heading down to Guatemala to do Guatemala-like things and mess around with Mayan hieroglyphs for a little while -- moblogging as the cellular gods allow.

Upon my return prizes, honor and esteem will be awarded to the clever individual who figures out what's so special about this particular variant of the Na Balam jaguar glyph shown above.

Here's a hint for you: It's right in front of your nose.

Peace.