Pre-Columbian, Central America, Costa Rica, Atlantic Watershed, ca. 300 to 700 CE. An attractive ensemble of 4 pottery vessels, all enveloped in vibrant red slip. First, the largest vessel presents a bulbous body in the form of a bird with a projecting rattle bird head, wings, and tail feather, as well as a sloped shoulder, narrow rim, and ribbon-form handle. An incised geometric motif additionally embellishes the shoulder of the vessel. The next vessel also exhibits a protruding bird head and tail, as well as a rounded body and inward curved rim, but this jar instead sits upon 3 stubbed legs that previously contained rattles. Alternatively, the last 2 dishes do not possess zoomorphic forms. Instead, the first is another tripod vessel with tubular, looped legs, a rounded base, and straight walls that rise to a flared rim. Lovely black vertical striations embellish the exterior and interior walls. Size: 6.5" W x 3.8" H (16.5 cm x 9.7 cm)

Finally, the last jar showcases a round yet stable base, a wide hip, a sloped shoulder, an attenuated neck, and a flared rim. A series of 6 nubbins decorate the shoulder edge, while rings of red, light orange, and black adorn the shoulder.

Provenance: private Kelley collection, Denver, Colorado, USA, acquired before 2000

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#168497

Both bird vessels are missing original rattles. Bird tripod vessel repaired from several pieces with restoration over break lines. Restoration to rims of 2 non-bird vessels. Repair and restoration to bird head of largest. All have expected nicks, chips, and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, all are excellent with nice earthen deposits and impressive remaining pigments.