Pair of Pedestal Plates

5th–8th century

Not on view

The images on this pair of pedestal plates depict mythical avian or saurian zoomorphs with feathered or scaled backs and chests, and clawed or multi-toed feet. Presented with open beaks and in mid-step, these creatures follow one another around the edge of the plate, head to tail, each occupying roughly half the space of the image field. Painted in brown, cream, plum, and reddish orange, the polychrome plates have similar but not exact designs. There are variations in the colors of the pedestal pattern and slight differences between the beasts, such as the red-rimmed eyes of those on one plate. This imbues the work with an air of spontaneity within the fixed composition.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Pair of Pedestal Plates
Date: 5th–8th century
Geography: Panama
Culture: Conte or Coclé (Macaracas)
Medium: Ceramic
Dimensions: H. 4 1/2 in. (11.4 cm)
Classification: Ceramics-Containers
Credit Line: Gift of Carol R. Meyer, 1993
Object Number: 1993.307.1, .2
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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