Lid with Feline and Human Female

Lid with Feline and Human Female

300 B.C.-A.D. 800
Culture
Tumaco - La Tolita
Locale
Colombia, south coast Ecuador, north coast
Country
Colombia, Ecuador
Object
lid
Medium
Earthenware
Accession Number
1992.23
Credit Line
Bequest of Robert J. Stroessner
Lid with Feline and Human Female . 300 B.C.-A.D. 800. Earthenware. Bequest of Robert J. Stroessner. 1992.23.
Dimensions
height: 9 in, 22.8600 cm; width: 11 in, 27.9400 cm; depth: 9 in, 22.8600 cm
Department
Mayer Center, Arts of the Ancient Americas
Collection
Arts of the Ancient Americas

Lid with Feline and Human Female
Tumaco-La Tolita
About 300 B.C.–A.D. 800
Northern Ecuador or southern Colombia
Earthenware
Bequest of Robert J. Stroessner, 1992.23

In this intriguing sculpture, a huge supernatural feline towers over the sprawled body of a woman – possibly a sacrificial victim.  Only the feet of a second human figure remain; it was standing, and the feline’s head seems to be turned toward it.  A small pallet rests beside this figure’s feet – its contents are uncertain.  Supernatural creatures, especially felines, abound in the art of the Tumaco-La Tolita culture.  They often strike dramatic poses, and wear elaborate headdresses and jewelry.  Their snarls display fierce teeth and long tongues. 

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