Tripod Vessel, 500 CE - 800 CE
Terracotta
12.5
PF.4326
Three beautiful rattle legs in the shape of stylized sharks support the round-bottomed vessel. Its round neck curves out slightly at the mouth rim adorned by two handles. The main...
Three beautiful rattle legs in the shape of stylized sharks support the round-bottomed vessel. Its round neck curves out slightly at the mouth rim adorned by two handles. The main designs on the handles are a row of three faces. The top and bottom face are very distinct and noble. They each have the same characteristics; wide opened eyes, large mouth with protruding lips and a pronounced nose. The ears have pierces. There is an appliquéd pattern representing a twisted rope design that goes around the vessel. The stylized sharks are identical in design and their main task is to hold up the vessel and protect its contents. Most probably this was a vessel that carried the favored treat of the Costa Ricans-chocolate. Though the decoration and the color are kept to a minimum, the beauty of the structure as a whole creates a sense of great originality and uniqueness.