Pre-Columbian, Panama, Chiriqui people, ca. 500 to 1200 CE. A gorgeous example of a ceremonial metate, carved from a coarse, grey volcanic stone, and taking the form of a jaguar. The jaguar has a long, curved tail that folds over between its legs to create a handle. It has a projecting head with a fanged mouth, long snout, wide eyes, and perky ears. Size: 10.75" L x 5.45" W x 4.1" H (27.3 cm x 13.8 cm x 10.4 cm)
Metate technology developed initially for the utilitarian purpose of grinding corn; however, they evolved into meaningful ritual objects, replete with strong iconography and intriguing sculptural forms. Examples of a larger scale but similar degree of decorative carving and iconographic symbolism were sometimes used to seat a departed lord on his journey to the afterlife. Jaguar imagery symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world; hence, warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this king of beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World.
Provenance: ex-Butterfield's; ex-private collection of Mary K. F. Leong, Washington, USA, collected between 1980-1990
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#131897
Condition
Surface weathering commensurate with age. Excellent preservation of form and details. Small chip from rim behind neck.