Human Effigy Vessel

A happy young mother places her hands at her swelling tummy, emphasizing the small miracle that is growing inside her. The water wave lines that cross her tummy further emphasize her fertility. A lustrous red slip covers her full, maternal body. A cream slip has been applied to her face only. The artist has paid care and attention with each painted and engraved design. This is a fine example of the expertise that developed in polychrome painting and design during the flourishing years of the Late Period IV, 1 – 300AD in the Guanacaste-Nicoya Zone of Costa Rica. Wide eyes and parting lips may reveal her innocence and wonderment with her future new position as a mother in the world. She may be sitting in a ceremonial posture that is indicative of ritual and perhaps fertility rites. The whole spirit of the young mother is one of peace and love, a feeling that is still shared with mothers today.