Description:

Pre-Columbian, Northwest Coast of Costa Rica / Nicaragua, Greater Nicoya, ca. 1000 to 1350 CE. A polychrome jaguar effigy tripod vessel. The wild feline presents with an intimidating sharp fanged visage and powerful legs supporting an upright pose with hands on hips - not truly possible for the animal, but rather more akin to a human pose, suggesting this vessel may represent a transforming jaguar shaman. Furthermore, the vessel is covered with intricate decorative/iconographic motifs, all delineated in red, black, and cream palette. Note that what at first appear to be rosettes on the jaguar's legs are actually bloodied bird heads. This bird hunt theme is echoed on the decoration embellishing the neck of the vessel as well with arrows aimed at an avian creature. Size: 9.5" L x 8.5" W x 11.75" H (24.1 cm x 21.6 cm x 29.8 cm)

Interestingly, the vessel also references the sound of the jaguar. Clay balls in the mouth and the front legs rattle when the piece is carried or moved in any way - metaphorically replicating the roar of the beast or possibly meant to enhance the musical performances of Pre-Columbian rituals.

Provenance: ex-private USA collection, acquired before 2000 from noted dealer Robert Anderson, Mason City, Iowa, USA; all items from this collection have been appraised by Marianne Huber in 2014

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#188382

  • Condition: Repairs to proper right leg and third/back leg, with small chips and light adhesive residue along break lines. Abrasions, small chips, and light fading to pigment, otherwise in nice condition. Great size and coloration.

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August 16, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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