Mayan ceramics included figures of humans and animals, vessels, and vases. What common theme was depicted on Mayan vases? A. royal audience B. jaguars C. gods

The common theme depicted on Mayan vases primarily revolves around religious and cultural symbolism. Among the options provided—royal audience, jaguars, and gods—gods (option C) are the central figures often represented in Mayan ceramics, including vases.

The ancient Maya had a complex belief system, and their art reflects their reverence for various deities, which played a significant role in their daily lives and rituals. The imagery on the vases might include gods performing ceremonial rites, mythological scenes involving creation, agriculture, or rituals related to death and the afterlife.

While jaguars are significant in Mayan mythology and often symbolize power and strength, and royal audiences could also be depicted, the gods remain the most prevalent theme due to their fundamental influence on all aspects of Mayan society, including politics, agriculture, and the cosmos. Thus, the correct answer is C. gods.