Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Chiriqui, ca. 1200 to 1500 CE. With its tall tripod support legs, this type of vessel is sometimes referred to as a "spider pot" or a "chocolate pot." It originates from the Diquis Region of Costa Rica and dates to the Chiriqui Phase. This particular vessel has monkey-shaped handles and crocodilian shaped rattle legs. The crocodile being the oldest (approximately 55 million years old) of the Crocodilia class which also included alligators and caymans was understood as a crocodilian earth monster and is oftentimes shown giving rise to what was known as the World Tree. Partial to a watery habitat, the crocodile was also a metaphor for fertility in Pre-Columbian mythology. Monkeys were admired for their playful antics, trickery, as well as their similarities to humankind. Size: 5.75" W x 7.125" H (14.6 cm x 18.1 cm)

Provenance: private collection of Lupita Tovar, silent screen actress of the 1930's, Bel-Air, California USA

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#124900

Repair to rim, losses to rim and monkeys, and surface wear as shown.