This beautiful effigy vessel is a fine example of a
Costa Rican pottery type in which human beings
are costumed as alligators, bats, or monkeys.
Large enough to contain substances (possibly
liquid) such vessels were utilized in ritual rites
where mythological figured symbolized by
alligators or monkeys were important. Depicted
quite realistically, the artist of the vessel
successfully captured the distinct characters of
an alligator and a monkey in a simple but bold
fashion. The bent knees and the large tail
support the figure like a tripod, and one arm is
raised to form a small handle-like structure. The
torso is decorated with intricate incision patterns
encased in a rectangular form. Moreover, the
knees and arms are enhanced with small circles,
which seem to radiate rays of energy. The
vessel's highly burnished, waxy brown-orange
finish glows with earthy warmth. And as we look
into the vessel, we can almost feel the energy on
our skin and in our souls. Perhaps the figure
represents a priest wearing a mask, performing a
ritual. Symbolizing the superb intelligence of a
monkey and the magical amphibian nature of an
alligator, this beautiful sculpture must have been
a special vessel containing a precious substance.
- (PF.3528)
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