A Jaguar Metate or Throne...

Description

A Jaguar Metate or Throne
Central America, Bocas del Toro region, c. 800-1500 AD

Carved from gray volcanic stone, this large metate takes the form of a jaguar standing on four legs beneath a rectangular grinding platform. The head projects forward on a long neck, with deeply carved oval eyes, an open mouth showing teeth, and long incised whiskers extending toward the ears. The front legs are ornamented with linear mat-like designs, while the rear legs are carved with spirals and related scrollwork. Along the sides of the platform runs an interlocking linear meander. Particularly engaging are the two animated monkeys, fully carved in the round and set between the front and rear legs, where they stand on the supporting bar and grasp the legs of the jaguar with their hands and tails. The heavy tail of the jaguar curves downward and to join the proper right rear paw. The combination of jaguar, monkeys, and richly worked surface gives the piece unusual vitality.

While metates were fundamentally used to grind maize and other substances, elaborate examples such as this likely carried a broader ceremonial role. The scale, sculptural complexity, and richly animated imagery suggest an object that moved beyond utility into the sphere of ritual, prestige, and elite display. Such works may also have served as seats or thrones, reinforcing the authority of the individual associated with them. A powerful and highly sculptural example, with the presence of both a ceremonial metate and a seat of rank. In very good condition; weathered, with shallow holes in places and a larger hole approximately one inch long behind the neck.

Provenance:
The Vilcek Foundation

Length: 29 inches

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