Tripod Zoomorphic Vessel

Zoomorphic representations were extremely important throughout the ancient world. Nature was such a powerful force and dominated everything the people did. This deep vessel demonstrates the importance of nature and animals, by representing an armadillo. The tripod legs that help to support the whole vessel contain clay balls in each which signifies that the function of this piece was an important one, such as use during a ceremony or a ritualistic event. The beautiful earthenware tone, a simple burnished red, allows the subtle incisions that were made for decoration to come out in full force. The whole piece is covered with incisions creating beautiful patterning which is predominantly geometric in execution. The entire exterior is decorated with these incisions and patterning which is continued down the legs. The inner rim of the vessel also shows delicate markings of a true artist. The head of the animal is the most prominent portion of the vessel. The long shaped nose and mouth and pointed ears, continue a motif found on the tripod legs. The small arms that come out from under the vessel, or more appropriately, the shell, touch the head gently, allowing for a humanistic approach to the work of art. Simplicity remains the key element in this work, reminding us of the elegant past.