Description:

Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Atlantic Watershed region, ca. 1000 to 1400 CE. A fabulous carved volcanic stone figure kneeling with 2 objects gripped in their hands. Is this a warrior holding a weapon in the right and a trophy head in his left? Headhunting was a popular theme in ancient Costa Rica the tradition of taking trophy heads during warfare also had a supernatural element. A shaman's head was most coveted, as it was believed to retain power due to the shaman's supernatural abilities to communicate with deities and ancestors. Another possibility is a deity, perhaps with a maize god with an ear of maize in one hand and a sacrificial victim. The conflicts that arose over territory and resources between ancient Costa Rican cultures likely influenced their carvings- trophy heads were a popular motif! Size: 5.75" L x 5.5" W x 12.25" H (14.6 cm x 14 cm x 31.1 cm)

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#175043

  • Condition: Softening to finer details. Surface wear commensurate with age and exposure. Abrasions and chipping to right side of figure and other high pointed areas. Light mineral deposits in recessed areas.

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October 27, 2022 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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