Basalt Sculpture Of A Standing Masked Figure - PF.2755 Origin: Costa Rica (Atlantic Watershed) Circa: 1000
AD
to 1550
AD Dimensions:29.5" (74.9cm) high Catalogue: V13 Collection: Pre-Columbian Medium: Basalt
Carved from a single piece of volcanic rock, this
is an exquisite example of the Ancient Pre-
Columbian sculptural artistry of the Atlantic
Watershed Zone in Costa Rica. This male figure
stands proud and tall wearing an elaborate
three-tiered headdress and an intimidating
alligator mask with snarling teeth. A bar-and-
tube shaped necklace adorns his chest, possibly
representing the jade tube necklaces worn by the
Costa Rican Indians. His hands circle his waist as
he stands firmly on the ground gracing us with
his powerful and dignified presence. His high
rank and power are evident from his solemn
pose. It is very likely that he was a chieftain and
a strong leader. Whatever the position of this
dynamic man may have been in Meso-American
culture, his powerful inner force transcends
through time and captivates our imagination.
- (PF.2755)