A Costa Rican Decorated Stone Metate, ca. 800 - 1200 CE
PS2305
- This object qualifies for free and fast worldwide shipping.
The metate is a type of grinding platform found in the ancient Americas; its forms vary from simple utilitarian to highly decorated ceremonial models. The curved grinding plate on this volcanic stone metate is decorated on the underside in raised relief with a central stylized figure having a human body and rectangular head, with the front leg incorporated as a long snout. The edge of the plate features a wide herringbone border. The plate stands on three cylindrical legs for stability, decorated with raised lines.
All materials that needed grinding were done using a metate, including maize, cacao, and slip pigments. The metate and mano were carved out of various types of porous volcanic rock, often microdiorite or andesite. The rough and brittle surface, usually made rougher by weathering, actually assisted with the grinding, making it easier to break down tough or fibrous materials.
For a related example in the Michael C. Carlos Museum, see Rebecca Stone-Miller, Seeing with New Eyes, p.134, catalog number 293.
Medium: Volcanic stone
Dimensions: Height: 7 inches (17.78 cm), Length: 13.75 ins (35 cm), Width: 8.75 ins (22.2 cm)
Condition: Intact and in very good condition overall.
Provenance: Scheifele Family private collection, CT., acquired 1962 - 1965, collection # 293/58.
Sands of Time provides a lifetime, unconditional guarantee of authenticity and provenance. Every object you purchase from us is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, stating culture, provenance, and age.
Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.
We ship Tuesday to Friday with FedEx and usually same day if your order is received before 2pm. Within the continental USA, packing, shipping and insurance is free. Depending on size and destination, delivery times range from one to five business days.
If we are shipping this object to you overseas, there is no charge for packing, preparation of all customs paperwork, insurance and carrier fees in compliance with all USA and International customs requirements.
We send overseas shipments with FedEx International Priority which usually means two to three day delivery to Europe and the UK, customs willing but contact us if you have a shipping preference.
Please note: International customers are responsible for all duties and taxes.
