Atlantic Watershed Jade Figure-Celt Pendant - PF.3158, Origin: Eastern Costa Rica, Circa: 100 AD to 500 AD, Catalogue: V15, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Atlantic Watershed, Medium: Jade. Skillful carving and drilling techniques distinguish this lustrous jade pendant. It is an exceptional representation of an Axe-God pendant from Costa Rica. This unusually large pendant depicts a human figure portrayed as an Axe-God who is probably a shaman or chieftain - shaman with high political as well as religious status. This Celt like pendant symbolically represents a functional polished celt that was used as a forest-clearing tool, which is associated with agriculture. The relative degree of "humanness" or "birdness" is highly variable concerning the arms or "wings" of this pendant. The "wings" may represent the harpy eagle, which may have been chosen as a symbol of strength and nobility among birds. These birds are high-soaring species, and it is possible that they were viewed as emissaries, the all-seeing "eyes and ears" of the shaman-eagle. The legs are indicated by only triangular and rectangular incisions. The artist tackling the hard material by defining planes, cutting out and sawing grooves, created this remarkable work of art. A mask that is adorned with a cap incised with arrows covers the head. The bulbous cheeks and large triangular nose are fascinating features and remain an enigma. Turn the pendant to its back and we are faced with another enigma: an incised “X.” This must be an important symbol both politically and religiously. There are drilled holes for suspension. Although the precise meaning of this exceptional lapidary work of art is as yet unclear, the fine artistry of this pendant clearly represents a highly sophisticated and flourishing culture in Ancient Costa Rica. A culture whose art appeases our thirst for beauty and innovation and lingers in our minds with awe and wonder.

Antiquities
Ancient Central America & Mexico