**Originally Listed At $300**

Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Guanacaste / Nicoya region, ca. 500 to 1000 CE. Hand-carved from jadeite, a jaguar god celt or axe blade. The jaguar torso juts slightly over the lower section with incised limbs, triangular chin, mouth, v-shaped nose, two small eyes, and two knobby ears. A perforation is hand-drilled horizontally through the neck for hanging as a pendent or to attach to a shaft as a cutting tool. Jaguars are supernatural symbols and powerful deities, and some Mesoamerican cultures channeled that strength through carvings such as this beautiful axe blade. Size: 1.5" W x 2.5" H (3.8 cm x 6.4 cm); 2.875" H (7.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Jadeite was the material of choice for celts in Mesoamerican cultures because of its resistance to chipping or shattering. The green stone was symbolic of agricultural fertility and was carved with images of deities or animals, which would imbue powers to the owner. The jaguar was regarded as a diety traveler between the living and underworld. Shamans ritualistically transformed into jaguars and human-jaguar figures were a popular theme in Pre-Columbian pieces.

Provenance: ex-private Tennessee, USA collection; ex Arte Primitivo Gallery, New York, New York USA

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#157820

Perforated through the neck for suspension or attachment. Surface abrasions as expected with use. Mineral deposits in recessed areas. The blade edge is smooth and intact!