The body of this vessel is ridged at the base, providing two delicate curves before it tapers to the top. On the side of the vessel is a beautifully modeled...
The body of this vessel is ridged at the base, providing two delicate curves before it tapers to the top. On the side of the vessel is a beautifully modeled appliquéd jaguar. Its arms and legs extend horizontally, and then turn straight upwards at the elbows and knees forming a perfect geometric balance. The jaguar's dramatic face is composed of appliquéd coffee bean shaped eyes and wide-open mouth exposing sharp teeth. Incised circles covering its body cleverly suggest the jaguar's coat. Each of the tripod legs is in the form of a head, probably a jaguar's, given the incised whiskers fanning over the cheeks. Two bands on the vessel's body run horizontally and complete the subtle decoration. The power of this object is immediate, bringing to mind the mysterious jaguar cults that flourished in Mesoamerica and their exotic rituals and ceremonies, in which this vessel may have participated.