Terracotta Chocolate Pot, 500 CE - 1000 CE
Terracotta
18.5
PF.3979
Created from a beautiful reddish-brown terracotta material, the chocolate pot has become a significant part of the traditions of the past. Its beautiful ornamented design with the long cylindrical neck...
Created from a beautiful reddish-brown terracotta material, the chocolate pot has become a significant part of the traditions of the past. Its beautiful ornamented design with the long cylindrical neck and applied decoration suggest that a true artist was a part of its creation. The main ornamentation can be found on the top of the tripod legs that help support the vessel and add a distinct characteristic to it. The sculptural motif on this piece represents the distinct characteristics of a majestic bird such as the condor/eagle. The fact that the birds are each looking over their left wing suggests a very sculptural pose indeed. For the ritual ceremony, the holes along the legs assist in emitting a distinct rattling sound, made ever present by its striking appearance. All of these elements combined have created a beautiful piece, filled with history and tradition, of which we have become a part.