Expertly carved from a single piece of volcanic
rock with only the use of stone and wood tools
plus abrasives, this dramatic warrior figure is a
brilliant example of the Pre-Columbian
sculptural skills of the ancient artisans from the
Atlantic Watershed zone of Costa Rica. Standing
in an erect posture, the proud warrior holds the
attributes of war. In his right hand he holds up
next to his chest a shrunken trophy head, as if
proudly displaying it for us, while in his left hand
he grasps his indispensable weapon of war, the
double-bitted axe. About his waist bark or cloth
armor is depicted through the artist's clever use
of incised geometric patterns. A series of incised
circular patterns also adorns the head of this
ancient warrior. To experience this magnificent
work of ancient stone sculpting is to engage us
in a magical journey through time and space, for
this powerful carved stone warrior continues to
elicit sensory responses from all who behold
him, whether it is past or present.
- (PF.2521)
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