Costa Rica Jade Avian Axe God Celt Pendant Pre Columbian, 500 Ad-1500 Ad

Description

Fine Costa Rican Jade Axe God, Guanacaste-Nicoya region,
circa. A.D. 1-1500. Of a celt form depicting the mythical part human- … more Fine Costa Rican Jade Axe God, Guanacaste-Nicoya region,
circa. A.D. 1-1500. Of a celt form depicting the mythical part human- part avian bird figure, with circular eyes peering from the bird mask, the beak with ridged caruncle resting on the chest, hands with incised fingers, and with a bird perched as headdress above; in brilliant speckled green and white translucent stone, pierced through the neck for suspension. Symbolizing wealth and status; these were worn as necklaces and pendants.

Material: Jade

Measures:
Length 5.75 inches (14.6 cm)
Width 1.2 inches (3 cm)
Depth .5 inches (1.25 cm)

Very nice Costa Rican jade celt effigy pendant in the form of a bird, probably a parrot, eagle, or curassow. Simple elegant stylized form.

Condition: Excellent.

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Jadeite was the most precious of all materials in the eyes of the PreColumbian people of Costa Rica. Jadeite and greenstone were worked into a wide variety of items from tools and utensils to items worn as emblems of social and political power. Jade objects were a sign of wealth and prestige. A common form was the axe god pendant, which was suspended from a cord around the neck. The name "axe god" comes from the form of the pendant, which replicates the shape of the traditional stone chopping tool (or axe). While most are anthropomorphic, some represent animals or supernatural beings. There is evidence that the avian form related to land ownership or land management in Costa Rican Mayan culture. less