Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Guanacaste-Nicoya, ca. 800 to 1200 CE. Carved from a single piece of volcanic stone, a mesmerizing deity or male shaman wearing a crocodile mask, standing with hands to abdomen and wearing an elaborate costume, including a tiered conical headdress that is adorned by vertical 'beads' or 'feathers', a pectoral falling between his nipples, and leg coverings that still reveal his genitalia - both the pectoral and leg coverings possess motifs that complement the headdress. He stands proudly and presents a fantastical visage with a striking nose ornament comprised of striated bands that rise and curl back to a circular form in a manner that mimics his flaring nostrils. Rising from the corners of his fang-bearing mouth are twin, raised bands that frame his cheeks and eyes. His large perforated ears most likely once held decorative ornaments to further embellish the deity. Size: 12.125" H (30.8 cm)

Iconographic references to crocodiles and other animals known to exhibit predatory, aggressive, and oftentimes dangerous behaviors were quite popular in the Pre-Columbian world. However, the crocodilian order, comprised of crocodiles, smaller alligators, and yet smaller caymans (all treated similarly in Pre-Columbian mythology) was especially symbolic to the ancients of the Americas. The crocodile being the oldest (approximately 55 million years old) was understood as a crocodilian earth monster and is oftentimes shown giving rise to what was known as the World Tree. Partial to a watery habitat, the crocodile is also a metaphor for fertility.

See a similar volcanic stone male figure wearing a crocodile mask at the Flint Institute of Arts in Flint, Michigan (accession number 2007.145). He assumes the same pose as this piece and a similar headdress. (https://flintarts.org/art/objects/5362)

Provenance: ex-private Sneed collection, Southern Florida, USA

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#137012

Left leg reattached with slight losses to both legs as shown. Expected surface wear with minor nicks to high-pointed areas, but otherwise excellent. Earth and mineral deposits grace the surface.