Lot 65c, Auction 4/12/2026: Costa Rican Nicoya Rattle Dish + Chiriqui Vessel

$455.00

In stock

Pre-Columbian, Central America, Costa Rica, Greater Nicoya and Gran Chiriqui cultures, ca. 1000 to 1400 CE. A fine pair of pottery vessels from two distinct but neighboring cultural spheres of ancient Costa Rica. The first, from the Greater Nicoya culture, is a pedestal dish supported by a sculptural base modeled with two expressive heads – one avian with a sharply hooked beak, the other anthropomorphic with broad features and earspools. Uniquely, the leg of the pedestal contains a clay ball, allowing the vessel to function as a rattle when shaken. The dish rises to a wide basin with a scalloped rim, its elevation and figural supports suggesting a ceremonial function, perhaps for offerings or ritual display. Such blends of human and animal imagery reflect the Nicoya interest in transformation and the fluid boundaries between human and supernatural realms. Size of larger (pedestal): 8.8″ Diameter x 5.5″ H (22.4 cm x 14 cm)

The second, from the Gran Chiriqui culture, is a globular jar with a flaring neck encircled by an incised zigzag motif and small applied lugs at the shoulders. Its rounded body and warm, earthen surface patina testify to both utilitarian and symbolic uses. Jars of this type likely served for storing or pouring liquids, while also playing a role as funerary accompaniments placed within burials.

Together, the pair offers a glimpse into the diverse ceramic traditions of ancient Costa Rica, showcasing the Greater Nicoya’s bold sculptural and auditory innovation alongside the more restrained but elegant forms of Gran Chiriqui.

Condition: Pedestal dish still functions as a rattle. Both have been professionally repaired and restored. Ligh surface wear throughout, but otherwise both have nice presentation with good remaining detail and scattered earthen deposits.

Provenance: private Colorado, USA collection; ex-Caza Sikes, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA, April 10, 2024, part of lot 102

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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