This spectacular pendant allows us a glimpse into
the ritual practices of the ancient Costa Ricans.
The
man-animal motif is common among Diquis gold
objects, and shows a male figure wearing a
crocodile mask. He is in ritual costume
comprising
a breastplate, woven belt, elaborate headdress,
and
trapezoidal feet which may be a type stlt.
Attached
to his elbows and knees are identical geometric
objects like highly stylized alligator heads. These
are similar to the two extensions which the man is
holding onto with both hands. His mask is very
powerful and richly detailed, with its filigreed eyes
and sharp row of teeth. His genitalia is in the
shape of a snake, a symbol of fertility, and may
be
a penis sheath. This man is probably a
shaman/chief 'performing' in a ritual ceremony,
and may represent exactly how such a person
would have appeared. The dramatic presence of
this figure is no less amazing than the beauty of
the pendant, and both combine to form a work of
art with historical and artistic importance.
- (FJ.6356)
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