Pre-Columbian, Central America, Costa Rica, ca. 200 to 600 CE. A breathtaking Costa Rican jade celt or pendant comprised of deeply hued yet translucent jade, expertly string cut with intriguing representations of two water birds in profile with long, hooked beaks. The body they share was carved with an openwork cross-like motif, a design that later became understood as a medicine cross, and a repeated circular motif, the two at the top center serve as perforations for suspension. Simply exquisite! Custom, museum quality stand. Size: 4-3/4" x 2-3/8" + custom stand.

Waterbird iconography was associated with underworld deities of the Pre-Columbian world. The underworld was simultaneously linked to the aquatic environs as well as the starry sky, as the watery underworld was reflected in the night sky. Waterbirds as animals of both sky and water connected the two realms.

Provenance: Ex-Denenberg Fine Arts, Los Angeles, CA.

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#110116

Choice