{"product_id":"pre-columbian-costa-rican-effigy-metate","title":"Pre-Columbian Costa Rican Effigy Metate","description":"Atlantic Watershed or Central Highlands region, circa 500–1000 CE.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Pre-Columbian ceremonial effigy metate, fashioned from porous volcanic vesicular basalt, exemplifies the sophisticated lapidary traditions of ancient Costa Rica.  Masterfully carved from a single piece of stone, the four-legged grinding table takes the form of a stylized feline, conventionally associated with the powerful predatory jaguar. The projecting head displays prominent rounded ears, concentric carved motifs across the crown, deeply incised eyes, and a pronounced squared snout. A slightly concave, oval grinding plate forms the creature's back, framed along its outer perimeter by a relief-carved register of alternating diagonal chevron and braided motifs. Extending from the rear, a stout, elegantly curved tail loops downward to fuse seamlessly with the rear leg, creating a closed loop that provides structural reinforcement. Both the legs and tail are richly embellished with an intricate lozenge and cross-hatched pattern reminiscent of feline spots or scales. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSize 13-1\/2 in L.. x 5-3\/8 in H.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eResting securely on four tapered columnar legs, this imposing ceremonial object exhibits an appealing, well-weathered grayish-brown surface with light burial accretions across the porous stone matrix, surviving in excellent structural condition with intact carvings and minimal edge wear consistent with its age and ritual use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEx Doral FL Collection of A.S.","brand":"Art for Eternity","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67937153483066,"sku":"18247","price":2450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0775\/5120\/6714\/files\/101390.jpg?v=1794082669","url":"https:\/\/howardnowes.com\/products\/pre-columbian-costa-rican-effigy-metate","provider":"Art for Eternity","version":"1.0","type":"link"}