Costa Rican hand-carved tripodal volcanic stone grinding tool.Typical of ceremonial craftsmanship in the Nicoya-Guanacaste region circa A.D. 400-1200, this three-legged metate is carved from a highly vesicular, light colored volcanic stone, with a zoomorphic jaguar head effigy carved into the front. All is formed from a solid piece. A square top, curved longitudinally, also features geometric surface carvings decorating the front and rear borders. The feet have a rectangular cross section that tapers softly into D-shapes. Corners, edges, and superficial surface decorations show wear consistent with age. Metate such as this are attributed to ornate ceremonial or funeral offerings created during the late classical to early post-classical period. Issued: A.D. 400-1200 Dimensions: 14.5"L x 8.5"W x 4.75"H Country of Origin: Costa Rica