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HOME :
Pre-Columbian Art :
Terracotta Trophy Heads : Guanacaste-Nicoya Blackware Trophy Head
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Guanacaste-Nicoya Blackware Trophy Head - PF.3585
Origin: Guanacaste, Nicoya, Costa Rica
Circa: 300
AD
to 500
AD
Dimensions:
6.5" (16.5cm) high
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
$5,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
This effigy vessel dramatically depicts a human
head. The sculptural rendition of the face is
stunning, with meticulously incised patterns and
marks accentuating the facial features. The
facial expression generates a sense of serenity
and charm; the small eyes are gentle, the nose
delicate, and the small mouth appear timid. The
incision lines indicating facial scarification
accentuate each feature, while complementing
the overall decoration of the vessel. The band
around the top and bottom sections of the vessel
depicts geometric patterns, specifically stylized
rendition of sections of the sun, establishing the
importance and significance of this effigy vessel.
So lovingly and skillfully sculpted, the vessel
perhaps was used in special ritual or ceremonial
occasions. Perhaps the vessel is a funerary
sculpture representing the deceased. Or perhaps
it was created to honor a priest or a chieftain in
a ritual. Because of the esoteric tribal culture of
Ancient Costa Rican people, most of such details
are unknown. We as modern viewers, however,
can still appreciate the great artistic
craftsmanship and dedicatory beliefs this vessel
represents.
- (PF.3585)
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