On this masterpiece of composition, we find a vessel full of symbolism and color which is not only beautiful, but mystifying. This exquisite composition combines the patterning of very important...
On this masterpiece of composition, we find a vessel full of symbolism and color which is not only beautiful, but mystifying. This exquisite composition combines the patterning of very important themes with color that illuminates this work of art. This person was o great importance, seen on the extremities of the body which contain patterns of jaguar heads. Jaguars and humans were cohabitants in the Costa Rican jungles, and these people worshipped them for their beauty, and feared them due to their immense strength. The jaguar stands as a symbol of power and majesty, and in repetition shows an enormous amount of authority. On the back of the vessel, the intertwining colors of orange and white suggest an eternal presence, the combination of life and death. The hands and feet of this person seem very animal-like, possibly suggesting an elevated human status into the realm of animal worship. Around the neck, there is a shawl hanging with extremely geometric patterning. This geometry is also present in the facial features (eyes, and ears), as well as in the mirrored symmetry along the axis of the body. The geometric forms, the patterns of jaguar heads, and the bold use of orange and black indicate the powerful status this person is represented with. The artist of this object has endowed it with a vigorous, energetic feel.