Originally listed at $4,500...

Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Atlantic Watershed, ca. 800 to 1200 CE. An exemplary jaguar effigy metate depicting the wild feline standing on 4 bowed legs with a broad, slightly convex back forming the grinding surface or bowl, and a sizeable hole drilled through the center, presumably for funneling its contents, all expertly carved from one piece of volcanic stone with refined dimensions and skillfully incised details. What's more, the sculptor of this piece successfully created an expressive countenance; just look at those bulging eyes, gnashing teeth/fangs, alert ears, and snarling snout as he stands proudly. A pair of cross bars featuring seated monkeys connect the front and rear legs to each other, while incised vertical striations line the periphery of the bowl. Size: 23.5" L x 13.8" W x 8.5" H (59.7 cm x 35.1 cm x 21.6 cm)

Metate technology developed initially for the utilitarian purpose of grinding corn; however, the objects evolved into meaningful ritual objects, replete with strong iconography and intriguing sculptural forms. Examples with elaborate decorative carving and iconographic symbolism were sometimes used to seat a departed lord on his journey to the afterlife. Jaguar imagery symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world; hence, warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this king of beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, 1995 to 2010; ex-Mary K. F. Leong collection, Washington, USA, 1980 to 1990

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#172827

Some areas of chipping, as well as pitting and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with impressive remaining detail and light earthen deposits throughout.