Costa Rican Basalt Warrior - Trophy Heads & Phallus

Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Guapiles Region, Huetar Civilization, ca. 1000 to 1500 CE. A fearsome basalt effigy carved in the round, this large-scale sculpture represents a standing warrior rendered with bold anatomical volume and stylized anatomical detail. The figure's powerful chest and legs are emphasized by incised scarification patterns that run diagonally across his torso and down the outer sides of both legs. His rounded fists each clutch a human head, unmistakable trophies taken in ritual combat or warfare. He wears a belt ornamented with geometric motifs, and a tight-fitting cap crowns his head - both indicators of elite status and martial identity within Huetar society. Deeply recessed eyes and thick lips give his face a commanding presence, while the prominent phallus speaks to his virility, authority, and perhaps the life-taking and life-giving duality attributed to warriors in pre-Columbian Central America. Size: 5" L x 9.8" W x 19.2" H (12.7 cm x 24.9 cm x 48.8 cm)

Figures such as this were likely displayed in ceremonial plazas or elite burial contexts, serving as guardians, commemorations of valor, or symbols of ancestral lineage. The stark symmetry, robust proportions, and symbolic clarity evoke the Huetar sculptural canon, in which warfare and status were immortalized in stone.

Provenance: Collection of Y. Kayvan, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from a Los Angeles, California, USA gallery acquisition dates range from the late 1990s to 2005

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)

PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.

#194942

Weathering to surface as shown, all commensurate with age. Small chip to proper right ear. Otherwise, intact and excellent with good remaining detail and rich earthen deposits throughout.