Vessel in the Form of a Saurian Deity, 500 CE - 1000 CE
Terracotta
16.5
PF.3661
Further images
The spiked rim around the opening of the vessel cleverly gives the impression of alligator scudes. Appliquéd eyes look downwards, the mouth is open slightly to accentuate the sharp teeth,...
The spiked rim around the opening of the vessel cleverly gives the impression of alligator scudes. Appliquéd eyes look downwards, the mouth is open slightly to accentuate the sharp teeth, which are further highlighted by a black line around the lips_ Two curly-cues on the upper lip serve as nostrils and also as ornamental details to the thick, curved nose. The figure touches his left hand against his forehead, while holding onto a gourd rattle with his right, pressed firmly against his chest. Tattoo markings stand boldly against the red slip. A thick band encircles the torso composed of two slim bands of white bordered by black lines, with the center segmented by wavy white lines. A triangle with a white circle in the middle is positioned so the tip points towards the navel. Four small white circles in a vertical line extend up the legs, offering a nice counterbalance to the pellets around the ankles. The legs are short and squat, with a 'tail' at the back for support, creating a tripod effect. Human figures wearing either alligator or bat masks represent shamans in ritual dress, captured by the sculptor in a moment of performance or dance.