The tripod vessel or chocolate pot is an important part of the art history of Costa Rica. The tripod legs help to support the Jicara or pear-shaped gourd body. Connecting the legs and the body are the appliquéd images of monkeys that cling onto the legs as if with a fear of falling off. The burnished red earthenware coloring adds to the uniformity of the design. The monkeys on the legs, facing downward with expressive faces lends distinct character to the entire piece. The legs are actually hollow and contain small clay balls that would rattle when the vessel is moved. This would heighten its visibility during an important ceremony or ritual where it was deserving of attention. With this in mind, the artist was in tune with the needs of the community and acted accordingly with his creations, which remain an important part of history.