Though each of the major regions of Costa Rica
manufactured gold objects, the area of Diquis in
the southern portion near Panama, produced the
most distinctive and abundant works of art in
gold. In the conquistador's journals mention is
made of the fact that each community in Diquis
owned a stretch of river where inhabitants
panned for gold and retained their own expert
craftsmen. The Spaniards were even more
surprised to learn that in the villager of Coctu,
the chief himself was a goldsmith specializing in
animal figures and breastplates. Of all artistic
trends and styles the gold of Costa Rica
represents some of the most fascinating and
unique objects ever created. This delightful
pendant is so lovely and delicate it is almost
poignant. Through the most precious of
materials this crab comes alive with movement
and character. He holds pellets in his claws
which he is about to eat. The body, though very
realistic, is done in an abstract fashion, seen
particularly in the swirling bands circling the
shell. This shows remarkable finesse and
freedom of imagination, combined with the
extraordinary skills of a master goldsmith. The
rich gold of this beautiful pendant glistens and
sparkles, as if the crab is crawling along a
shallow pool, catching the sun's rays in brilliant
gleams of light and color.
- (FJ.6155)
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