Description:

Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica / Panama, Veraguas-Chiriqui, ca. 11th to 16th century CE. A cast copper pendant of a stylized crocodilian form - with a hollow open back with a vertical bar on the neck for suspension. The head is facing backwards with a curled snout - bared teeth visible along the sides, squinting eyes, ridged horns, and characteristic butterfly ears - a mixture of anthropomorphic and reptile features. The legs and curved tail below resemble a lizard and crocodilian. While not visibly evident, this copper creature was probably gilt in precious gold, XRF testing detected 8% to 14% gold. Crocodilian imagery - caiman and crocodiles - frequently appear in Isthmo-Colombian cultures and signify power. Size: 2.5" L x 1.25" W (6.4 cm x 3.2 cm)

Provenance: private Stillwater, Oklahoma, USA collection, acquired 1969 to 1970; ex-Dr. Jorge Lineas, San Jose, Costa Rica

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#187820

  • Condition: Heavy green patina throughout and surface abrasions. Heavy encrustations obscure some finer details, especially on the head ridges and ears. Intact without restoration or repairs!

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August 2, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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