Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Atlantic Watershed, ca. 800 to 1200 CE. Hand-carved from a single piece of grey volcanic stone, this is a large ceremonial metate. The edges are decorated with conical, tooth-like protrusions, and the metate itself stands on three elongated rectangular legs. The grinding surface of the metate is deeply curved and thin. Metate technology developed initially for the utilitarian purpose of grinding corn; however, they evolved into meaningful ritual objects and ones with animal iconography were used to seat a departed lord for his journey to the afterlife. Size: 16.5" L x 12.75" W x 8.375" H (41.9 cm x 32.4 cm x 21.3 cm).

The many uses of metates in ancient Mesoamerica signify its many symbolic meanings. The metate was created primarily to pulverize certain foodstuffs like seeds, certain varieties of plants, and most importantly maize. Maize has been a life source for ancient Costa Rican peoples for centuries, and its abundance during the harvest season was believed to indicate whether society as a whole would prosper or struggle in the coming months. The wealth of corn was also suggestive of not only the fertility of the land, but also those who tended to it. The ruler who likely used metates like this example as a throne would essentially be a physical embodiment of the assurance or dread felt within his people of the fertility and thus the survival of their land.

Provenance: collection of the late Alfred E. Stendahl, Stendahl Gallery, Los Angeles, California, USA

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#126372

One corner and midpoint repaired with small chips and light adhesive residue along break lines. Two of three legs reattached with adhesive residue along break lines. Surface wear commensurate with age and use, small chips and nicks to peripheries, conical protrusions, and grinding surface, with some discoloration, otherwise very good. Light earthen deposits throughout.