Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Atlantic Watershed, ca. 800 to 1200 CE. A charming stone metate standing upon a trio of bowed legs with the abstract head of a jaguar projecting from one side. The minimalist feline presents pointed ears and a broad snout as his broad, concave back forms the grinding surface of the vessel. 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. Size: 20.8" L x 11.4" W x 10.1" H (52.8 cm x 29 cm x 25.7 cm)

Provenance: private Rochester, Michigan, USA collection; ex-private American collection, early to mid-1980s

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#182606

Professionally repaired with restoration and repainting over break lines. Some chips, nicks, and indentations to areas. Nice signs of use and liberal remaining detail.