Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Nicoya region, ca. 200 to 600 CE. Finely carved and string-cut, an axe-god celt in the form of an abstract bird effigy with avian beak and wings, twin tufts emerging from its head, two striations across the face with tiny, pierced eyes. The white caliche on the surface is a result of it being unpolished; beneath are hints of the pale green hues inherent to the stone. Laterally perforated through neck for suspension. Custom stand. Size: 4.375" H (11.1 cm); 5.5" H (14 cm) on stand

Bird pendants were made for centuries in many styles, materials, and sizes in the area stretching from Costa Rica to north and central Colombia in the south. As sky animals, birds were regarded as messengers between humankind and deities of the celestial realm in the Pre-Columbian world. This example was carved from a lovely stone of light green hues that hasn't been polished and shows marvelous caliche - mineral deposits comprised of calcium carbonate, hence the surface is graced with a frosty white hue.

Provenance: Ex-private Orange County, CA collection

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#120880

Unpolished with glimpses of green stone beneath white caliche and root marks.