Pre-Columbian, Diquis, Costa Rica ca. 1000 to 1400 CE. Skillfully carved in the round from a single hefty stone, a jaguar perched upon all four legs and glaring out at the viewer with a formidable expression. Just look at those large bulging eyes, those raised ears demonstrating a state of alertness or alarm, and that wide opened mouth bearing sharp fangs and a lagging tongue. In addition to this expressive face, the body is carefully delineated with front and hind legs, a tucked in tail, and even the pads on his paws. Size: 11.5" L x 6.5" W x 7.375" H (29.2 cm x 16.5 cm x 18.7 cm)

Known as the "king of beasts" in the Pre-Columbian world and infamous for possessing high speed and massive strength, the jaguar was believed to dominate nature and inspire respect and awe throughout the ancient Americas. Jaguars were associated with strength and leadership, whether regarding spirituality or martial skill. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this King of Beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World whom they viewed as their spirit companion and protector. According to a dramatic narrative in the Popol Vuh, the protective hero twin Xbalanque, possessing a zoomorphic phenotype with jaguar skin, fought the monster macaw Vucub Caquix with his twin Hunahpu, and the hero twins defeated the monster.

Provenance: private, Pennsylvania, USA collection;ex-Louis Kaufman collection, Los Angeles, California, acquired before 1994

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#149016

Abrasions/chips to rear, shoulders, ears, teeth, lips, and other high pointed areas as shown. Pressure fissures to head and pressure fissures to lower body (but not indicative of repairs). Earthen deposits and scattered mineral deposits on surface. Collection number handwritten on underside.