The Gran Chiriquí region, located in southern Costa Rica and northern Panama, contains ancient pre-Columbian artifacts dating from 500 to 1500 AD. Throughout most of this region’s history, maize has existed as an important crop, nourishing the people and having a large role in their ceremonial affairs. In recent years, artifacts have been discovered that were assumingly used to prepare maize and aid in ceremonies. Archaeologists call them “metates.” Constructed from porous volcanic stone, these artifacts range in size from 10 cm tall and 30 cm in length to 40 cm high and 90 cm long. The metates’ basic purpose was to grind corn. However, the ornamental quality of many metates suggests a ritual function. The grindstones located in Gran Chiriquí are recognized for their intricate stone relief patterns that depict geometric and animal designs. Commonly featured animals include jaguars and birds. This is unique to the region; most grindstones from other regions are plain. Since maize was such an important crop, archaeologists link these sculptures with the concept of fertility, a popular theme for ancient societies since so many are believed to have struggled for survival. It is suggested that these metates may have served to bring fertility to the agricultural land.
No comments:
Post a Comment