- 78
Costa Rican Stone Effigy Metate. Atlantic Watershed region Late Period IV-Period V, ca .A.D. 800-1200
Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- stone
- Length: 26 in (68.3 cm)
with the mythical feline's fierce strong head baring fangs, pierced septum and small ears curled forward, with openwork neck, and the gracefully curving platform finely edged by a step-scroll pattern, and supported on elaborate openwork legs.
Provenance
Private collection, acquired over 40 years ago
Sotheby's, New York, November 23, 1998, lot 79, consigned by the above
Sotheby's, New York, November 23, 1998, lot 79, consigned by the above
Catalogue Note
Cf. Jones, Kan and Snarkis (1981: cat. no. 77) for the general type.
The Atlantic Watershed effigy metates of jaguars, coyotes, and birds may represent clan symbols or deities. On this example, the fierce feline's head incorporates small animals as the ears and marking the snout. The wear on the curving platform is from ceremonial and ritual use.