From the depths of the great Guanacaste-Nicoya Zone of the culturally rich country of Costa Rica, history and art combine to tell us a story. This artistic jar may express one or many of the ancient stories or mythologies relating to the turkey buzzard. The turkey buzzard is elaborately painted with wings and swirling designs. The molded head leaps forward at us with its horned beak and horn. The throat is painted orange over the unusual molding. Eyelashes and wide-open eyes add sensitivity and charm to the turkey buzzard. The artist in following the swelling contours of this pear-shaped pedestal jar has paid careful attention. The border on the top is filled with intricately painted elements of various motifs. Below the mouth rim, there is a row of geometric script designs. Heavy black stripes tie together the top and bottom of the jar. This jar may have served an important function during shaman rituals. The artistic ingenuity and beautiful shape of this jar makes it a masterpiece of well-developed skill and remarkable creativity.