Miniature Costa Rican Basalt Metate Abstract Feline

**Originally Listed At $600**

Pre-Columbian, Central America, Costa Rica, Greater Nicoya or Atlantic Watershed Period, ca. 300 to 500 CE. A hand-carved basalt metate, a grinding table that is usually much larger in size. This miniature example was perhaps used for crushing ingredients in much smaller quantities, perhaps for the preparation of cosmetic material, medicinal substances, or even poison. The abstract feline form features 3 angular legs adorned with incised striations as well as a broad countenance with ovoid eyes and bared teeth. Size: 6.375" L x 3.3" W x 2.1" H (16.2 cm x 8.4 cm x 5.3 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-prominent Stanley L. Kaufman collection, prior to 1993

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#184758
Condition Report: Minor abrasions and nicks, with pitting naturally occurring in this type of stone, otherwise intact and excellent. Incredible surface smoothness throughout.