Tripod Jar
Artist/Maker
Central Highlands/Atlantic Watershed
(Costa Rica)
Dateca. 400-700
Mediumpottery and slip paint
DimensionsOverall: 11 3/8 x 10 1/2 x 8 1/2 in. (28.9 x 26.7 x 21.6 cm)
ClassificationsContainers
Credit LineGift of The Institute of Maya Studies
Terms
Object number80.0040
DescriptionThought to be an incense or offertory burner, this delicate tripod jar is a strong example of the Africa style. The style is characterized by modeled decorations perched above the legs, which taper to a fine point and are hollow rattles. The appliqués on this jar are vultures and trophy heads, and the vultures are likely representative of Sibo, the King Vulture, who was an important mythological figure associated with creation and fertility. The trophy heads represent offerings to Sibo and cutting off the heads of prisoners as fertility offerings was a common ritual practice. Each of the bird decorations is slightly different, giving the vessel a fascinating narrative appearance.On View
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