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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Archive : Guanacaste-Nicoya Jaguar Effigy Vessel
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Guanacaste-Nicoya Jaguar Effigy Vessel - PF.3543
Origin: Guanacaste, Nicoya, Costa Rica
Circa: 1200
AD
to 1400
AD
Dimensions:
13" (33.0cm) high
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Style: Guanacaste-Nicoya
Medium: Terracotta
Additional Information: SOLD
Location: United States
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| Description |
This Nicoya polychrome vessel belongs to the
pataky polychrome type. Elaborately decorated
with symbols and patterns, this tripod vessel was
most likely used in a ritual or a ceremony, which
was to ensure agricultural prosperity and fertility.
In a high-relief style, the front of the vessel
depicts an image of an important Meso-
American jaguar-god, who roamed the fertile
grounds and forests of Costa Rica. Its protruding
head shows the large, bulging eyes and the
wide-open mouth, which reveal the dangerous
fangs. The attributes of the jaguar god such as
power and force are expressed evidently. The
jaguar face is decorated with black and orange
painted lines to show stylized details of the facial
feature. It also wears a headdress, an elaborate
neckpiece with a large pendant, wrist cuffs, and
ankle cuffs. Such beautiful enhancements
suggest the high, divine status and power of the
revered jaguar god in Ancient Costa Rica.
Moreover, the position of the jaguar emanates a
majestic, regal essence; the hands rest on the
knees and the large legs firmly support the
vessel. The neck of the vessel is also decorated
with pictorial symbols that possibly indicate the
significance and the function of this special
vessel. Such magnificent sculpture has a strong
visual impact as well as an emotional impact on
its viewers. As we contemplate this ancient
evidence of belief, we recognize that our desire
for prosperity remained the same throughout
the obstacle of time.
- (PF.3543)
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