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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Jaguar Effigy Vessels : Guanacaste-Nicoya Vessel with an Applique Jaguar
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Guanacaste-Nicoya Vessel with an Applique Jaguar - PF.3148
Origin: Guanacaste, Nicoya, Costa Rica
Circa: 1200
AD
to 1400
AD
Dimensions:
9.5" (24.1cm) high
Catalogue: V15
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
Location: UAE
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| Description |
This is a masterpiece of composition graced with
the rich qualities of originality and sensitivity.
On a sun-drenched background, there growls a
magnificent jaguar, which appears to be
suspended in action. The jaguar is highlighted
with designs of color and dimension. Our
attention is focused on the forearm of the jaguar
as it grips the bands of color. The jaguar's head
is turned and peers past the area of inclination to
an imaginary space or object beyond us. A growl
thrusts forth from his wide-open mouth
revealing his sharp teeth. Eyelashes have been
tenderly depicted above the lively staring eyes.
Surrounding the upper bands of color are glyphs,
which resemble a bird, perhaps an aquatic bird.
The beak is long and narrow, which would allow
it to be a great fish hunter. The birds have been
sensitively painted with an elegance of a single
line. The tripod base is painted with jaguar claws,
perhaps in remembrance of witnessing the
jaguar's deadly blow of one sweeping paw
against its victim. During ritual, this globular
vessel may have been set before a shaman or
nobility who possessed these powerful qualities
of the jaguar and aquatic bird. We are drawn
again and again through this skillful
composition, compelled to pleasantly remember
the revealing moments of our own powerful
nature.
- (PF.3148)
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