SCULPTURE OF A WARRIOR

Volcanic stone
Costa Rica
1000-1200 a.D.
h. 113 cm
An export license is available for this lot
Provenance: Rabier-Quintero Collection (since 1980). References: Yale University Art Gallery (New Heaven, Connecticut), Museum of Fine Arts (Houston, Texas), British Museum (London), Precolumbian Gold Museum (San Josè, Costa Rica), Museo Nacional de Antropologia (Mexico City), Museo Nacional de Costa Rica (San Josè, Costa Rica). Skilfully extracted from a solid block of volcanic stone, this figure of a warrior is a brilliant example of the sculptural abilities of the Precolumbian artisans living in the Atlantic area of Costa Rica. Modelled upright, the warrior proudly displays his war attributes. In his right hand he has a head trophy. In his left hand he holds a double-edged blade axe, which was the preferred battle weapon. Some thin engraving points out the muscles on his chest, underlining the warrior’s superior strength. The greatest and most beautiful sculptures of Costa Rica are the statues of warriors. These monumental works which celebrated great military valour, adorned squares, ceremonial sites, and residences of prominent people. They are integral to a society which after 700 A.D. considered military power of extreme importance, and which celebrated the individual by iconic representations of powerful and invincible warriors. These were also symbols reflecting their leaders’ personalities.