Masterfully carved from a single piece of volcanic
rock with only stone and wood tools plus
abrasives, this dynamic masked figure is a
splendid example of the ancient Pre-Columbian
sculptural artistry of the Costa Rican area.
Caught in attested motion, ready to rise at a
moment's notice, the finely carved figure wears a
fantastic alligator mask, replete with powerful
teeth and curling snout. His spectacular two-
tiered headdress recalls the Costa-Rican stools
of similar shape that are also adorned with
alligator masks. While the figure's right hand
rests on his leg, his left hand clutches a necklace,
the ornament forever a mystery behind the deftly
carved fingers. Is this mystical figure the
representation of a chief or a shaman? Who are
the gods that he reverentially addresses?
Clearly, his symbolic mask and headdress denote
a person of spiritual rank and power. A
magnificent rendering of three-dimensional
form, this masked figure captivates us as we
sense his barely-harnessed motion and feel the
power and energy of his reptilian visage. The
admirable harmonizing naturalistic rendering
and an energetic spirit makes this figure a
masterpiece of Pre-Columbian sculpture art.
- (PF.2318)
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