Description:

Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Nicoya region, ca. 200 to 600 CE. Finely carved and string-cut from a beautiful greenstone, an axe-god celt in the form of an abstract bird effigy with an avian beak and wings, twin tufts emerging from its head, incised striations marking the base of the crest and the beak, and incised circular eyes. In addition to its adorable bird form, the stone is inherently beautiful presenting soft green hues and mottled caliche on the surface. Drilled through neck for suspension. Lucite stand in photos for display purposes only. Size: 1.4" W x 3.375" H (3.6 cm x 8.6 cm)

As sky animals, birds were regarded as messengers between humankind and deities of the celestial realm in the Pre-Columbian world. Bird pendants were made for centuries in many styles, materials, and sizes in the area stretching from Costa Rica to north and central Colombia in the south.

Provenance: private Colgate, Wisconsin, USA collection acquired 1970s to 1990s

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#156827

  • Condition: Repaired from two large pieces diagonally from left shoulder to bottom-right corner, with resurfacing and very light adhesive residue along break lines. Abrasions to body and head, with softening to some facial details, and light encrustations. Light earthen deposits within some recessed areas.

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July 30, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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