Description:

Pre-Columbian, Central America, Costa Rica, ca. 200 to 800 CE. An intriguing anthropomorphic idol, hand-carved from mint-hued jadeite, exhibiting abstract avian characteristics like curved wings and a large beak. The bipedal figure stands upon clawed feet and supports a pair of bicephalic serpents atop its narrow cranium. Several drilled areas perhaps held additional ornamentation at one time while sturdy suspension holes are drilled through the neck and mouth. Size: 0.9" W x 2.4" H (2.3 cm x 6.1 cm)

In the Pre-Columbian world, birds were understood as sky animals that mediated between humankind and the deities of the celestial realm. Snake/serpents provide a fascinating element of Pre-Columbian iconography as they were regarded to be a beneficial source of nourishment and at the same time quite deadly with their poisonous venom. Also important to the indigenous was the fact that snakes shed their skin annually thus rejuvenating themselves and serving as symbols of renewal and good health. The existence of two snake heads on this piece may suggest the bicephalic serpent which was a signifier of high rank in various Pre-Columbian world views. These two-headed beasts were regarded as sky bands that arched over the earth or surrounded the seas serving as a passageway for the planets and stars of the celestial realm. This motif decorated articles associated with individuals of high rank, thus associating them with the powers of this mighty creature.

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#175089

  • Condition: Very small nicks and light abrasions, otherwise intact and excellent. Great preservation to figural form and finer details.

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October 27, 2022 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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