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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Tlaloc Effigy Vessels : Guanacaste-Nicoya Tlaloc Effigy Vessel
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Guanacaste-Nicoya Tlaloc Effigy Vessel - PF.3395
Origin: Guanacaste, Nicoya, Costa Rica
Circa: 1200
AD
to 1550
AD
Dimensions:
11" (27.9cm) high
Catalogue: V18
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
Location: United States
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| Description |
On this masterpiece of composition, we find a
vessel full of symbolism and color which is not
only beautiful, but mystifying. This exquisite
composition combines the patterning of very
important themes with color that illuminates this
work of art. This person was of
great importance, seen on the extremities of the
body which contain patterns of jaguar heads.
Jaguars and humans were cohabitants in the
Costa Rican jungles, and these people
worshipped them for their beauty, and feared
them due to their immense strength. The jaguar
stands as a symbol of power and majesty, and in
repetition shows an enormous amount of
authority. On the back of the vessel, the
intertwining colors of orange and white suggest
an eternal presence, the combination of life and
death. The hands and feet of this person seem
very animal-like, possibly suggesting an elevated
human status into the realm of animal worship.
Around the neck, there is a shawl hanging with
extremely geometric patterning. This geometry is
also present in the facial features (eyes, and
ears), as well as in the mirrored symmetry along
the axis of the body. The geometric forms, the
patterns of jaguar heads, and the bold use of
orange and black indicate the powerful status
this person is represented with. The artist of this
object has endowed it with a vigorous, energetic
feel.
- (PF.3395)
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