In Ancient Costa Rica, jade was thought to have
mystical qualities because of its superiority to
other stones. Tools and weapons made of jade
belonged to persons of high rank and authority.
This dark green jade dagger is in the form of a
monkey, arms proudly resting on his chest, and
another monkey perched atop his head. The
incised detail combined with an expressive
rendering exudes a powerful aura. One wonders
who proudly displayed this dagger on his chest,
perhaps he was a shaman or a chieftain.
- (PF.2808)
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