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Jaguar Ocarina - PF.4305
Origin: Costa Rica
Circa: 500 AD to 800 AD
Dimensions: 4" (10.2cm) high
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta

Additional Information: SOLD

Location: United States

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Description

Ocarinas are the musical instruments of the New World and are found in high-status tombs. This jaguar ocarina is very symbolic and it suggests use in rituals and ceremonies. The jaguar was a very important animal to the Ancient Costa Ricans. They viewed it as an animal of strength and power. The ceremonies and rituals they used this instrument for must have been highly important to the longevity and prosperity of the tribe and certain noble individuals. This jaguar is painted in a grayish-brown color with incisions of lines and circles representing the jaguar's coat. The face is very realistic and beautifully rendered. The mouth is wide open in a growl exposing the well-defined white fangs. The eyes are wide open and attentive accentuated by the deep lines that make the eyebrows and eyes stand out. The ears are turned back in anger. The piece is so unique in style that the tail is used as a grip to hold onto the instrument when in use. Only two legs were sculpted and they protrude out from the body and grasp the tail. The finger holes are placed on the top of the two legs and at the center of the body. The blowhole is located on the backside of the body. Although zoomorphic vessels are not those uncommon, musical instruments with symbolic importance, such as this one, become a rarity. This unique piece encompasses these special qualities and gives us a glimpse into the culture of ritualistic and spiritual activities of the Costa Ricans. - (PF.4305)

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