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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Basalt Jaguar Metates : Atlantic Watershed Basalt Metate in the Form of a Jaguar
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Atlantic Watershed Basalt Metate in the Form of a Jaguar - PF.2734
Origin: Eastern Coast of Costa Rica
Circa: 100
AD
to 500
AD
Dimensions:
3.5" (8.9cm) high
x 4.75" (12.1cm) wide
x 10.25" (26.0cm) depth
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Basalt
$3,600.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
The metate was originally used as a means of
transforming maize into flour for human
consumption. However, it was also used in
religious rituals as a primary mortuary symbol,
which promised rebirth and new life. This jaguar
metate may have been buried in the tomb of a
prominent person as a tool of transformation in
the human life cycle. The precisely carved head
of the jaguar confronts us as he gives light to the
darkness in the underworld. The jaguar
represented the night sun in the underworld and
was often used in religious rituals symbolizing
power. Geometric designs surround the border
of the metate and continue on the face, legs, and
tail of the jaguar. One wonders with whom this
metate was buried. Was he a chieftain or a
strong leader of great men?
- (PF.2734)
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