This ceremonial metate is an exciting example of
the stonework created by the people of Pre-
Columbian Costa Rica. Skillfully carved from a
single piece of volcanic stone with only the use of
stone and wood tools plus abrasives, this metate
exhibits a remarkable combination of serene
lines and dramatic energy. Here we see the
gentle curves of the round metate bowl that
forms the single body of two jaguars, contrasting
vividly with the bold and dynamic feline heads
that project from opposite ends of the body. At
the same time, two pairs of gracefully rounded
feline legs that serve as the metates support, are
patterned with angular geometric designs once
again emphasizing the contrasts between the
various components that form this lively work of
feline art. Jaguars were highly revered in ancient
Costa Rica not only for their strength but also
their furtiveness. Able to apprehend the
strongest of prey while also capable of slinking
through the night undetected, these animals
were esteemed and worshiped for contrastive
nature. This carved jaguar metate exhibits a
similar dichotomy of qualities, revealing to us the
Ancient Costa Rican artists acute sensitivity to
the natural world and his uncanny ability to
translate that animate world into a lively work of
sculptural art.
- (PF.2290)
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