It is certainly true that the artists/goldsmiths of ancient Costa Rica produced objects with deep ritualistic meaning. They made what their clients demanded; and yet, we must allow a place for pure creation based on no other motive than the pleasure it gave the creator. This very charming pendant may fall into this category; a work of art so full of delight it defies a strictly scholarly approach to its meaning. The five birds, probably parrots, sit in a neat row on top of a thick hollow tube. Their beaks are so long they nearly touch the chest. They are poised in an amusing way; birds have of appearing very quizzical, especially the bird at the far end (left) whose head is slightly cocked as if he is not quite certain what he's seeing. The tiny beads used for eyes give all these feathered fellows a look of intelligence and gentle humor. Now that they have emerged into the light after centuries, they can once again scan the world from their new perch and delight everyone they see.
- (FJ.6355)
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