As its name implies, Costa Rica has been famous
for its gold since the moment of European
discovery. "The quality of gold that abounds here
is very great, and of good karat, as can be seen
form the plates of gold the Indians beat out,"
these are the words of the 16th century Spanish
explorer Diego De Sojo, written after he
experienced the extensive and exquisite gold
craftsmanship of ancient Costa Rica. Today this
artistic heritage can still be enjoyed through such
masterpieces as this stunning gold avian
pendant. The epitome of power and energy, this
avian spreads his stylized wings and tail feathers
to their full plumage. A large open, hooked beak
projects outward from the bird's head, revealing a
set of sharp pointed reptilian teeth which serves
to emphasize the symbolic union of the ancient
mythologocal traits of the bird and reptile.
Further evidence of the composite nature of this
dramatic figure can be seen in the two ornate
alligator heads that project from either side of the
avian. A crown composed of five animal heads,
possibly deer, completes the image, yet another
element that adds to the dynamic complexity of
this imaginative work of art. While the intricacies
of its original symbolic meaning may be unclear,
what is known for certain is that this ancient
avian pendant continues to exude an aura of
primal energy and spirit--one that captures the
imagination and stimulates our senses.
- (FJ.5231)
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