Ocarina
Artist/Maker
Diquis
(Costa Rica)
Dateca. 500-1000
Mediumpottery and slip paint
DimensionsOverall: 3 1/8 x 3 1/4 in. (7.9 x 8.3 cm)
ClassificationsMusical Instruments
Credit LineCollection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
Terms
Object number65.050.060
DescriptionWind instruments like this ocarina were used as a means to ritually connect with beings of the natural world and, as ancient Costa Rican society became increasingly populous and organized, shamanistic spirit connection was even more important for the success of extended family clans. There is no evidence to indicate the nature of rituals associated with this spinning-top form of ocarina. It is painted in a common style known as Buenos Aires polychrome with red and black linear patterning on a cream colored slip.On View
On viewCollections
