Pre-Columbian (Costa Rican) stone head
This work is a stone head (bust) from Costa Rica. It sits atop a wooden base and the work itself is c. 23 cm tall by c. 13 cm wide. It evidences wear commensurate with the age and material. There is a collectors mark on the piece and a worn label at the base that indicates it was collected in 1949. It was inherited in 1988 from my father, Harry Bober, who was a noted NYU art historian.
c. 23 cm h. x 13 cm. w.
Inherited
Yes
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Based on the images and information you provided, this item is:
A Costa Rican Pre-Columbian Stone Head Trophy. This stone trophy head, likely originating from the pre-Columbian era, bears witness to the artistic and ritualistic practices of the indigenous peoples in the region. The sculpture is crafted with a high degree of precision, showcasing the skilled stone-carving techniques employed by the Costa Rican artisans during this period.
Characterized by its distinct form, the trophy head likely exhibits unique features such as exaggerated facial expressions, intricate details, and symbolic elements that hold cultural significance. These trophy heads were often associated with ceremonial practices, possibly linked to ritualistic traditions or expressions of social and spiritual beliefs within the ancient Costa Rican societies. The use of stone as the primary medium underscores the resourcefulness and craftsmanship of the artisans, as stone carving was a prevalent and revered art form in Pre-Columbian Mesoamerica.
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