Terracotta Polychrome Vessel - PF.3775 Origin: Costa Rica (Guanacaste-Nicoya) Circa: 500
AD
to 800
AD Dimensions:21.25" (54.0cm) high Catalogue: V20 Collection: Pre-Columbian Medium: Terracotta
No artifact can be as striking as a large vessel in
the shape of a vicious bat with its wingspan only
partially displayed and its sharp fangs
protruding. The orange-red monochrome slip
allows the sculptural features of the vessel to be
seen in plain view, allowing us to focus on the
sculptural techniques of the artist. The piercing
eyes are hidden under dark and heavy brows
while in the center of the stomach of the animal
is a circular geometric pattern of an unknown
origin. The vessel itself is supported by three
supports. Two are the legs of the animal and the
third is the tail. Though bats are generally
known in the area of Costa Rica, the vessel still
shows the incredible force and formidable power
of the animal kingdom.
- (PF.3775)