When Christopher Columbus discovered Costa
Rica in 1502, he found a "highland with many
rivers and full of tall trees". The Spanish admired
the natives, their customs and their splendid
works of art, including their masterful
stonework. A prime example of that artistry can
be seen in this rendering of a standing figure.
Carved from a single block of dark volcanic
stone, this femininely shaped figure is rendered
through flowing lines, strong but curved
shoulders and firm body. Her lack of arms
accentuates the rounded form of the shoulders,
which leads the viewer's eye towards her
dreaming face. Perhaps the figure is in a trance
state with mouth open and eyes heavy and
drawn. Her headdress may suggest ceremonial
importance while she remains in a dream state,
yet somehow the figure is gracefully awake. Her
expression is reminiscent of our own traveling
through sleep and the delight which dreaming
brings.
- (PF.2417)
|
