When Christopher Columbus landed in Costa
Rica in 1502, on his fourth voyage to the New
World, he found a group of people that he
described as acute and intelligent, displaying
much surprise and interest in whatever was
shown to them. Moreover, these amicable Costa
Ricans were adept at the arts of pottery making,
weaving, casting, woodcarving and stone
sculpting. In the realm of stone carving, the
Costa Rican sculptors truly excelled, as revealed
in this standing female figure. Carving from
volcanic stone, the ancient artist created a
striking image, one whose distinctive shape
emphasizes the curving, cylindrical form of the
human body and limbs. Although the sense of
naturalism is minimized, a feeling of balance and
proportion presides over the figure, heightening
our awareness of her refined beauty. As we
observe this compelling female, we are also
captivated by her femininity. With delicate hands
she cups her breasts, in a pose that likens her to
a great Goddess, one whose nurturing spirit
continues to nourish all who encounter her.
- (PF.2664)
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