This stunning crocodile appears as though it has
just stepped out of the Caribbean Sea, ready to
bask in the Costa Rican sun. This creature
comes from the Chiriqui culture and embodies
the strength and power which the Costa Ricans
and Panamanians associated with this awe-
inspiring reptile. The Chiriqui culture in
particular seems to have held this creature in
high esteem, which is evident from the frequency
with which crocodilian motifs appear in Chiriqui
gold sculptures. The crocodile is depicted in a
highly stylized manner. Its eyes are fashioned in
the "coffee bean" shape closely associated with
Pre-Columbian sculpture. The creature's bared
teeth are rendered into symmetrical rectangular
projections. The rest of the body, however, is
softly rounded and softens the effect of the
crocodile's snarling visage. The bangles
encircling its ankles impart an anthropomorphic
element to the animal and indicate that it is a
highly venerated figure and may represent a
deity.
- (FJ.5806)
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