Two of the most powerful symbols of Costa Rican art flank either side of this exceptional work of art. The harpy eagle and the jaguar are depicted with their heads emerging out of the bowl. The harpy eagle may have been chosen as a symbol of strength and nobility among birds. It is also reclusive in nature, a dweller in the high forest canopy, and a striking image when glimpsed. These birds are high-soaring species, and it is possible that they were viewed as emissaries, the all-seeing 'eyes and ears' of the shaman-eagle. Designs fill one half of the bowl pertaining to the harpy eagle. These may be baby birds. This artist was a master polychrome painter and has revealed his skill through the complexity of colors and designs. Swirling lines and dot motifs fill the other half of the bowl. The jaguar head tilts slightly to the side. The jaguar may have been chosen as a symbol of strength and nobility among all species and humans. The pure ingenuity and talent of the artist who created this masterpiece is unsurpassed by his contemporaries.