Pre-Columbian Costa Rican Guanacaste-Nicoya Jade Votive Figure 250 AD- 800 AD

Antique Pre-Columbian figure from Costa Rica, Guanacaste-Nicoya, circa 250 to 800 AD. This carved dark green jade votive figure depicts a sitting shaman-priest with crossed legs and geometric arms, hands clasped on his torso.

He is wearing an impressive tall headdress carved with geometric motifs. The figure has been expertly sculpted and polished with fine attention to detail. His features are striking, featuring a pronounced nose, large eyes, and full lips.

Jade was regarded as a sacred material by the ancient populations of Costa Rica, esteemed even more than gold. It symbolized the vital life force that sustains us all.

The color green is naturally associated with lush plant life. Specifically, jade is believed to symbolize the sprouting maize plant, a staple of the Pre-Columbian diet. Additionally, it has been suggested that jade represents water. In either case, we can be certain that jade embodies the essence of life itself.

The ancient Costa Ricans believed that social hierarchy extended into the afterlife. Jade objects, considered magical, were buried with the elite to maintain their power throughout eternity.

The hands folded neatly over the abdomen resemble the ritual pose of a shaman-priest, who wore an elaborate headdress during ceremonial rituals.

MEASUREMENTS:

Height: 18.5 cm (7.28 inches).

WEIGHT: 224 grams (7.901 Ounces)

CONDITION: It displays signs of age and wear, highlighting a beautiful, natural patina.

PROVENANCE: Ex-private old Canadian collection.