Although Costa Rica was a major lapidary center,
comparatively few examples of very high quality
stone have been found. Of these, many are jade
in the form of animals or 'Axe-god' Celts used
as pendants or ritual figures. The rarity of
objects so beautifully carved, as this phallus may
not necessarily reflect their limited production in
ancient times. Fertility cults flourished for
centuries and involved elaborate rituals designed
to aid both men and women in procreation. The
blue-green stone of this phallus is particularly
lovely; and though not as precious as jade, was
valuable enough to merit a talented sculptor's
expertise. It is very realistic, even to the thick
tendon on the back and curve of the head.
Though the testicles are almost abstractly small,
they have an undeniable aesthetic charm. It is
possible such phalluses were made as dildos,
which would explain the use of a smooth
material. As a work of art it is a pure form of
virility, elegance and natural beauty.
- (PF.4728)
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