Diquis Gold Pendant of a Lobster - FJ.6319, Origin: Costa Rica/Panama, Circa: 500 AD to 1550 AD, Dimensions: 3.5" (8.9cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Diquis, Medium: Gold. The artists/goldsmiths of ancient Costa Rica loved the mystery and allure of their natural environment. In their jewelry they combined ritualistic significance with aesthetic beauty to create some of the most intriguing works of art in the ancient world. This very delightful lobster pendant is so precisely made its purpose seems to extend beyond the decorative. Real elements are blended with the abstract-- its body is segmented imitating the lobster' s flexible shell, then suddenly merges into a fan tail design, typical of Diquis style. The two c1aws stretch around in a lovely curve, each holding a pellet. Above the horizontal legs are units of twisting S-shaped bands on either side attached to the lower portion of the c1aws. This pattern ingeniously gives the impression of movement, and even of water sweeping over the crustacean. The head is spiny, and its eyes protrude scanning the surroundings. It is most probable this pendant was worn for ornamentation rather than for ritual purposes. And now it can be worn again, brought into the light once more after being buried for centuries.

Antiquities
Ancient Jewelry