Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Greater Nicoya, ca. 300 to 800 CE. A fabulous pair of pottery vessels, each displaying a bulbous body, a brief, narrow neck, and an annular rim, all sitting upon 3 tapered legs. First, the larger of the 2 presents a flared rim and towering legs, each topped with a petite zoomorph resembling a monkey or lizard with an arched body forming a handle. Two of its legs feature applied faces, while all 3 display long slits down the side, allowing one to see into their hollow interiors. A small clay ball on the interior of 1 leg allows the vessel to produce a lovely rattling sound when shaken. Alternatively, the other vessel displays nubbin legs, each with 2 to 3 slits, as well as a pair of knob-like handles in the form of a zoomorphic head and tail that flank the neck. Petite pieces of clay or pebbles fill the interior of each leg, allowing the vessel to serve as a rattle. Size of largest: 6.3" Diameter x 7.1" H (16 cm x 18 cm)

Provenance: private Lumberton, Texas, USA collection, acquired before 2010

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#169535

Both still function as rattles. Both repaired from several pieces with restoration over most break lines. Larger has a few break lines visible on leg. Restoration to zoomorphs, rim, and legs of larger. Smaller has loss to minor area of rim and tail of zoomorph. Both have expected nicks, scratches, and abrasions. Otherwise, both are very nice with earthen deposits on interiors. Dead insect on interior of larger.