Towards the end of Period VI a style of pottery
developed known as Luna Polychrome with close
affinities to objects made in southwestern
Nicaragua. These particularly refined ceramics
are characterized by a pearly cream slip and
fine-line decoration. Often animal effigies are
used on the legs, as in the case of this handsome
bowl, where we see three very graphic stylized
jaguar/ alligator heads. The curve of the neck of
each head allows for the direct extension of the
chin and the fully exposed sharp teeth. With the
careful balancing of red and black slip on cream,
especially around the eyes, the artist has given
the faces a wide range of expression and
dramatic effect. Their bulk is nicely contrasted to
the slimness of the bowl, with its fascinating
designs around the outside rim and covering the
interior. What has been achieved here is a
combination of strength and delicacy, stark
realism and abstraction, in harmony with each
other creating a perfectly formed and lovely work
of art.
- (CK.0453)
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