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Pre-Columbian Art :
Basalt Jaguar Metates : Basalt Metate in the Form of a Jaguar
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Basalt Metate in the Form of a Jaguar - PF.2289
Origin: Costa Rica
Circa: 1
AD
to 500
AD
Dimensions:
6.375" (16.2cm) high
x 9.5" (24.1cm) wide
Catalogue: V11
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Basalt
$9,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
This exquisite ceremonial metate was the most
important ritual object of its time. Serving as a
special purpose, high-status grave offering, its
function as a metate was secondary to its form.
There is no evidence of its use as a grinding
surface, for the rough interior area of the stone
bowl has not been smoothed by the use of a
mano. In fact, this powerful object, when placed
in a tomb, represented both elite control over
food production and the promise of rebirth and
new life. The jaguar form of the metate is almost
modern in its dynamism. Its head and tail are
incised with a geometric pattern, perhaps
representing the animal's spots. The long tail,
which curves to the side and attaches itself to the
back leg, gives an appearance of swift side-to-
side movement. The fierce looking N-shaped
incisors and teeth, coupled with the curved
shape of the legs makes one expect to see the
animal move forward, adding an attribute of life
to this stone feline. The creative artistry
evidenced in this piece and other ceremonial
metates of its time contributed to the creation of
the first freestanding sculpture in the region.
The legacy of this jaguar continues into the
present for its power and beauty is still a joy to
behold.
- (PF.2289)
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