PreColumbian - Chorotega Ritual Tripod Vessel - 1100–1400 AD

Overview Origin: Chorotega culture, Greater Nicoya region (present-day Costa Rica) Date: c. 1100–1400 AD Material: Fired red clay with mineral accretion Dimensions: Approx. 5.5” H × 6.5” W Condition: Structurally complete with historical repairs An authentic pre-Columbian ritual vessel from the Chorotega people of ancient Costa Rica, dated 1100–1400 AD. This ceramic effigy bowl stands on three sculpted avian legs—each formed as a stylized bird, likely parrots or owls, symbolizing celestial messengers. The vessel's surface features a rich reddish-brown slip with age-softened patina and encrustation. The rim is intact and well-formed. An underside label underside reads “Vasija del Pacífico, el MST – PC 75”—suggesting former institutional or academic collection history. Notable condition details: The central, frontal bird effigy has lost the upper crest tip of its head and exhibits a visible age crack running down the face. The torso-to-leg joint of another effigy appears to have undergon