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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Jaguar Effigy Vessels : Guanacaste-Nicoya Jaguar Effigy Vessel
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Guanacaste-Nicoya Jaguar Effigy Vessel - PF.3130
Origin: Guanacaste, Nicoya, Costa Rica
Circa: 1000
AD
to 1450
AD
Dimensions:
5.25" (13.3cm) high
x 13" (33.0cm) depth
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Style: Guanacaste-Nicoya
Medium: Terracotta
Location: United States
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| Description |
This zoomorphic effigy vessel has certain
characteristics that resemble a jaguar, an animal
this culture highly respected. The artist has
depicted the animal with careful attention to
detail. This animals pose is very human-like, as
the front paws support the head and resemble
human arms. Emanating from this work of art is
a strong emotional relationship between orange,
black, and creme colors. The jaguar lived
amongst the Costa Rican people and although
they worshipped it, they were also tremendously
fearful of its possible actions. The artist shows
these juxtaposed feelings with the open mouth;
revealing both the sharp teeth this animal could
hurt us with and the jovial grin on the jaguar's
face. This vessel was most likely used in
ceremonies of worship and rituals, because the
clay balls in the mouth transform this vessel into
a rattle. This vessel is decorated in an energetic,
geometric style with order and logic to the
patterns. The overlapping of angular lines makes
this vessel look like an exquisitely woven basket.
As we focus on the art of ancient times, we
marvel at our ability to understand these cultures
through their art. This piece is a breathtaking
example of how one artist has preserved the
sentiments of the time through the colors, line,
and strength of the forms.
- (PF.3130)
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