All of us possess certain objects, which are constant reminders of a monumental event connected to our lives, or objects, which are a constant inspiration for our every day living. The designs and motifs on such objects are symbolic expressions that are meaningful to our understanding of life. Since everyone has a different destiny and understanding of life, it is no wonder why each of us possess such different objects. The alligator motif on this tripod vessel was once a symbolic expression that was meaningful to an ancient inhabitant of Costa Rica. It may have had a politico-religious message or perhaps it was a constant reminder of the omnipresence of the supernatural in daily life. Whatever the significance may have been, this object communicated a precise message to its owner just as our objects communicate a precise message to us. They are used as tools to inspire us and to help us reach a greater understanding of life.