Pre-Columbian, Central America, Costa Rica/Panama, ca. 800 to 1200 CE. A fabulous hand-built, terracotta vessel sometimes referred to as a spider-leg jar or a coca jar, of a classic tripod form with monkey legs, a round-bottomed bowl with two bands of incised, dotted details adorning the neck, and a flaring rim. Each monkey lies in a prone position with hands placed on the chin, bold facial features including large round eyes and a wide open mouth, superimposed by a long curling tail. The monkey was a favored animal in Pre-Columbian iconography, not only because their antics in a way mimic our own but also because they were associated with creativity and believed to be the originators of the visual and performing arts. A beautiful work of pottery most likely used in ritualistic ceremonies given its special iconography and elegant form. Size: 6.5" W x 9.25" H (16.5 cm x 23.5 cm)

Provenance: Ex - Private Denver, CO collection acquired at Arte Primitivo

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#113975

Repairs to one monkey tail and one foot, stable cracks to body as shown. Expected surface wear commensurate with age.