Description:

Pre-Columbian, Central America, Costa Rica, Guanacaste/Nicoya region, ca. 200 to 600 CE. An incredible greenstone pendant string cut into a crested bird, a suspension hole bored through the center. In the Pre-Columbian world, birds were understood as sky animals that mediated between humankind and the deities of the celestial realm. Shamans ritualistically transformed into birds and other animals to gain their power, and this figure likely represents a shaman undergoing some transfiguration. It is also a possible depiction of a deceased person, since birds guided human souls to the underworld. Size: 2.25" L x 0.75" W (5.7 cm x 1.9 cm)

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Arte Antico, New York, USA

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#179873

  • Condition: Minor surface nicks, otherwise intact and excellent. Light mineral and earthen deposits.

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July 14, 2023 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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