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Pre-Columbian Art :
Pre-Columbian Masterpieces : Diquis Gold Pendant Featuring Two Frogs on the Backs of Two Larger Frogs
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Diquis Gold Pendant Featuring Two Frogs on the Backs of Two Larger Frogs - FJ.6275
Origin: Costa Rican/Panamanian Border Area
Circa: 500
AD
to 1550
AD
Dimensions:
3" (7.6cm) high
x 5" (12.7cm) wide
Collection: Pre-Columbian
Style: Diquis
Medium: Gold
Additional Information: 208.5 grams trudy, withdrawn
Location: United States
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| Description |
Amphibian animals were favorite subjects of
Diquis goldsmiths. The frog is one of the most
frequently depicted, but its deep symbolic
meaning is lost in the mists of the past.
However, it is possible to speculate on certain
aspects by combining facts of nature with known
mythilogical symbols. This extraordinary
pendant actually depicts four frogs. The larger
two are highly abstract and comprise the base,
with their bulbous bodies and wonderful
trapezoidal feet. Springing from their mouths
are two elaborate snakes with dual heads jointed
at the center and extending on the ends. Snakes
were regarded as potent symbols of sexuality
and fertility. The second pair of frogs are much
smaller and more easily recognizable. Their
realistic heads serve as the heads of the larger
frogs. These twin frogs on top may be the male
of the species copulating with the much larger
female. As in other pendants, the marvelously
clever Diquis artists gave deference to artistry as
opposed to strict realism, especially seen in the
flamboyant curved feet of the small frogs. This
pendant was meant to be worn, and proclaimed
its arrival by the rattling of solid gold nuggets in
the bell shaped bodies. When fine artistry and
brilliant gold come together, they are enough to
announce the presence of something
spectacular.....trudy
- (FJ.6275)
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