Pre-Columbian Jama-Coaque Pottery Jaguar Maskette
Ecuador, ca. 300 BCE–500 CE

This expressive Jama-Coaque pottery maskette depicts a supernatural feline being, likely representing a jaguar or jaguar-human transformation figure. The face is rendered with bulging eyes, a broad feline nose, prominent fangs, and a protruding tongue—iconography closely associated with shamanic power and spiritual transformation in ancient Ecuadorian belief systems. Traces of original red pigment remain visible throughout the surface, highlighting facial features and adding visual depth. Perforations along the sides indicate the maskette was likely attached to a larger ceremonial object, costume element, or architectural adornment. The piece exhibits attractive age-related surface weathering and burial deposits consistent with antiquity.

Dimensions: 2” x 3 1/4”

Provenance: Ex Robert Hill-Butcher Collection, Orlando, Florida; acquired at an artifact show in Gulfport, Florida.

Condition: Surface wear, minor losses, and weathering consistent with age. Traces of original pigment remain visible. Mounted on a custom display stand.