Lot 111
Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Atlantic Watershed, ca. 800 to 1400 CE. A superb jaguar metate expertly carved from a single piece of volcanic stone, standing on 4 stable legs with attention to the curvature of his joints and haunches. His flattened back forms the grinding surface- slightly curved to contain the herbs, medicine, or food being prepared. His sinuous tail curves inward to his foot creating a handle, and his head provides another grip. Stylized zigzags and diamond motifs decorate the neck, tail, and metate rim, and the head is delightfully stylized, and the lips are pulled back in a snarl! Size: 9.5" L x 4.75" W x 3.25" H (24.1 cm x 12.1 cm x 8.3 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 accompany and/or seat a departed lord on his journey to the afterlife. Jaguar imagery symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world.
Provenance: ex-Barakat Gallery, Beverly Hills, California, USA, acquired prior to 2000
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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.
#170901
- Condition: A few chips and surface abrasions, otherwise intact and excellent. Light earthen and mineral encrustations throughout.
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| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |