Guanacaste Terracotta Sculpture of a Jaguar, 1000 CE - 1500 CE
Terracotta
height 22.9 cm
height 9 in
height 9 in
FJ.0011
Further images
This zoomorphic effigy figure has certain characteristics that resemble a jaguar, an animal this culture highly respected. Emanating from this work of art is a strong emotional relationship between orange,...
This zoomorphic effigy figure has certain characteristics that resemble a jaguar, an animal this culture highly respected. Emanating from this work of art is a strong emotional relationship between orange, black, and creme colors. The jaguar lived amongst the Costa Rican people and although they worshipped it, they were also tremendously fearful of its possible actions. The artist shows these juxtaposed feelings with the open mouth; revealing both the sharp teeth this animal could hurt us with and the jovial grin on the jaguar's face. As we focus on the art of ancient times, we marvel at our ability to understand these cultures through their art. This piece is a breathtaking example of how one artist has preserved the sentiments of the time through the colors, line, and strength of the forms.