Gold Pectoral Featuring Twin Saurian Deities - FJ.6207, Origin: Costa Rican/Panamanian Border Area, Circa: 500 AD to 1550 AD, Dimensions: 4.75" (12.1cm) high x 5.75" (14.6cm) wide, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Pre-Columbian, Medium: Gold. To encounter something so rare and rarely seen as this phenomenal pectoral is an experience equal to a great adventure. It is as if we have taken a journey deep into the rain forest and suddenly discovered an ancient temple obscured by jungle growth. After clearing away the hanging vines we encounter these two mythical beasts guarding the entrances. The immediate effect is one of extraordinary power beyond the normal world. Indeed, it required a very expert goldsmith to create mythical figures with such remarkable detail. The heads are like a crocodile with rows of menacing teeth exposed, and eyes squinting as if they are seeing through us. Three coiled bands on each of their snouts beautifully represent through abstraction the look and feel of crocodile skin. Delicate spirals weave from the upper portion of their heads. A marvelous effect of webbed feet or hands is created with finely twisted multi-bands wrapped around the supporting structure. The imposing crescent shape, like the roof of a shrine, is typical of Diquis artists. It is a marvelous blend of curves and angles, ending in two mythical snake heads. One pair of rectangular plaques hang from the figures 'elbows,' and pair of bells form the tails turn the entire object into a type of musical instrument. In fact, the purpose of the danglers was probably to make the wearer seem alive with tingling sound as he moved. It is very likely this pectoral was made for an important chief or even shaman, who adorned himself with such fabulous items to give the impression; his glory was beyond this world. When seeing and holding this unbelievable beautiful pectoral it is easy to believe it contains magical powers that transcend the real world.....trudy .

Antiquities
Ancient Unknown