Ancient Pottery Vessel-Artifact Excavated in Central America

A couple of recently purchased cameras have not arrived yet, so I thought to post something different and interesting. As a side note, it’s always amazing how many collections take root over the years.

This ancient pottery vessel was dug up by a close friend over ten years ago. He’s a scientist-engineer who does archeological work on the side. The good news is he participates in digs under full disclosure with land owners and the country’s government.

The artifact is representative of a jaguar. It is 11 inches high and appears to be a type of incense burner or something that once held oil. I believe carbon dating was done and will need to check back with my friend at some point to learn the approximate age. Two other artifacts were acquired from other digs; a large urn and smaller incense burner in the shape of an animal.