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Pre-Columbian Art :
Costa Rican Musical Instruments : Guanacaste Zoomorphic Ocarina
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Guanacaste Zoomorphic Ocarina - PF.3150
Origin: Guanacaste, Nicoya, Costa Rica
Circa: 300
BC
to 300
AD
Dimensions:
3.875" (9.8cm) high
x 2.125" (5.4cm) wide
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Medium: Terracotta
$900.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
This ocarina has been cleverly designed in the
shape of a human figure arrayed as a monkey
and a crocodile. The relative degree of a "human"
or "monkey" or "crocodile" seen in this delightful
work of art is due to one's own perception. Some
may see it as an obviously masked human, while
others may see it as a much more ambiguous
phenomenon which has monkey, crocodile and
human characteristics. This ocarina probably
depicts a shaman or chieftain-shaman with a
high political and religious status. The monkey
and crocodile may have been chosen as symbols
of strength and nobility among animals. The
monkey is reclusive in nature, a dweller in the
high forest canopy and a striking image when
glimpsed with its human-like arms, legs and
face. The monkey is the closest resembling
animal to ourselves, and it is possible that it was
viewed as an emissary, the all-knowing "eyes
and ears" of the shaman-monkey. The crocodile
is also reclusive in nature, but it dwells on the
land and in the swamps. It, too, is a striking
image when glimpsed with its frightening teeth,
long snout and bulbous eyes. Ocarinas come in a
variety of sizes, producing tones ranging from
that of a tenor recorder to that of a shrill whistle.
The mouthpiece and the size of the resonance
chamber are modified to produce different tones.
Ocarinas are the musical instruments of the New
World and are found in high-status tombs. This
suggests use in a ritual context. It is a charming
work of art with its crocodile snout and monkey
ears. Its royal head is adorned with a dazzling
crown and it looks as though it is smiling
underneath all its glory. This special ocarina
continues to pass on its magic and alluring
appeal from ancient hands.
- (PF.3150)
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