Of all animals in the rain forest the jaguar was
the most revered. For centuries it was a principle
figure and subject matter for works of art in
ceramic and stone. The jaguar is not only a
magnificent animal in itself; but for the Costa
Ricans and many other cultures it had complex
symbolic meaning, penetrating deep into the
core of their religious beliefs. Elements of earth
and sky are embodied in the jaguar; it is seen as
a masculine symbol, associated with lightening,
rain and thunder. Moving swiftly through the
forest with no rivals or predators, it is the very
essence of strength, virility and cunning. The
magnificent beast has come to rest in this superb
sculpture. He is lying in wait, with his watchful
eyes alert to danger, and his sharp teeth
exposed- so realistically created you can almost
hear the spine-chilling growl. The body is
graceful and distinctly feline, given a beautiful
luster in shades of cream, orange and black, very
much like a jaguar's coloration. The entire object
exudes both the scents and sounds of the jungle,
and another worldly aspect in its penetrating
gaze, which seems to see through the material
existence into a separate realm. With great skill
and sensitivity the artist has left us a lovely and
moving depiction of an animal that will always
capture our imagination. HT. 26cm(10 1/4IN) :
L. 48.2cm(19IN)
- (PF.4227)
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