Costa Rica is in many ways a crossroads; major
biological, climatological and geological frontiers
all pass through it, creating a natural cornucopia
of flora and fauna. Not surprisingly, it also forms
part of the frontier between two major cultural
traditions--the Mesoamerican and the tropical
rain forests on Northern South America. The
quality and variety of ritual objects created by
Costa Rica's Pre-Columbian cultures reflect a
unique artistry, a direct result of being situated
at this strategic position. Distilled northern and
southern artistic influences have combined with
local traditions, resulting in creative works of art
such as this terracotta female effigy whistle. A
most expressive and novel face stares out at us,
her bulging eyes, large nose and gaping mouth
displaying a highly sculptural quality. Thin arms
with fingers delineated by incising, wrap around
the front of her stocky body, focusing our gaze
upon her female attributes, while short legs
position her firmly on the ground. If held upside
down, with our chin place over her genitalia,
when we blow outwards, a soothing tone is
produced, akin to blowing air across a bottle
too. We can only guess at the ancient ritual
function of this most unforgettable female.
However, her instrinsic spirit will forever
emanate forth, capturing us in its magical spell.
- (PF.2168)
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