- 4
Costa Rican Low stone altar, Atlantic Watershed region Late Period IV/Period V, ca. A.D. 300-700
Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
- stone
- Diameter: 25 1/4 in, height 11 1/2 in (64.2 cm and 29.2 cm)
the ceremonial platform with a circular top supported on cylindrical tripod legs each of a stylized toucan nibbling into the edge, the underside with openwork crisscross support, the serrated perimeter composed of 56 small stylized heads or fruits.
Provenance
Acquired in the 1960's
Condition
Excellent but shows various clean breaks and repairs in varius areas. Lower half of one leg appears restored.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
The stone metates, altars and ceremonial thrones are hallmarks of early stone sculpture from the Atlantic Watershed and Pacific- Nicoya region. While they may be related to the functional grinding stones of Mesoamerica, these platforms were made for ritual use or as elite furniture.