Object ID: 1998.01.49

archaeological
Effigy Bowl

Jars in the shape of animals or humans-called effigies-are common at Casas Grandes sites around northern Mexico. Some archaeologists claim effigy vessels were used in rituals, though very few studies have been done to confirm this. What do you think this turtle effigy might have been used for?

Catalog Record

Culture/Ethnicity: Casas Grandes

Object Name: Vessel

Other Name: Effigy Bowl

Artist/Creator: NA

Locale: NA

Use: Domestic Use

Construction: Coiled

Height: 6.3

Length: 22

Width: 14

Location: Kent Hall, East Gallery, Unit_10, Shelf_2

Description: Polychrome ceramic effigy jar in the shape of a turtle. Tan slip and black and red stripe designs on shell. Two holes on shell near head and two more by the tail. The shell is polished.

Source: Horace and Patricia Poeter