Spanish chronicles of the 17th Century vividly
describe finding tombs where chiefs, warriors
and elite personages were literally covered in
gold ornaments. Gold clothing was believed to
symbolize the celestial realm, particularly the
sun, as the life-giving energy source of the
world. For the ancient Costa Ricans gold meant
nothing until it was fashioned into a work of art.
Then, it not only acquired meaning, but also
power in possessing a supernatural energy
gleaned from the artist's skill, and his intent to
communicate ideas of his people's religious
beliefs. The iconography of Costa Rican jewelry
was strictly controlled and though the artists
delighted in depicting a variety of animals, only
certain ones were portrayed. Monkeys were a
favorite theme due to their natural appeal and
importance to Central American mythology. This
wonderful monkey pendant is more zoomorphic
than realistic, and perhaps because of this, he
exudes a mysterious charm. Monkeys are often
depicted with tails circling their bodies, and in
this case, it is interspersed with spiraling circles
that also serve as ears. He wears a sort of vest
and holds onto his tail with such a lively
expression it seems he is about to jump up or
perform a typically monkey prank. Costa Rican
goldsmiths were so talented they were able to
bring innovation into a rigidly defined context;
communicating their imagination and artistry
that is as exciting today as it was in the golden
age of the New World.
- (PF.4111)
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