Published Pre-Columbian Costa Rican Jade Axe God
Costa Rica, ca. 500 BCE–500 CE

A finely carved Pre-Columbian jade axe god pendant from ancient Costa Rica, executed in a beautiful deep sea-green stone with soft translucency and a highly polished surface. The figure is rendered in the classic axe god form, with a stylized anthropomorphic visage, recessed circular eyes, sharply pointed beak-like nose or snout, and abbreviated arms folded across the chest above a broad, tapering blade. A suspension perforation at the shoulders allowed the piece to be worn or displayed as an insignia of rank and spiritual authority.

This example is especially important for its strong pedigree and publication history. It is illustrated in Pre-Columbian Jade from Costa Rica by Elizabeth Kennedy Easby, published as no. 17, where it is identified as a Bird Celt, described as “thick, with rounded back,” in “very translucent deep sea-green jade,” height 2 7/8 in. (7.2 cm). The sculptural form, elegant proportions, and rich stone place it among the most desirable Costa Rican jade pendants, objects associated with status, ritual, and elite identity.

Provenance: Ex Wright, Chicago, Illinois; Ex Andre Emmerich Gallery, New York.

Published: Elizabeth Kennedy Easby, Pre-Columbian Jade from Costa Rica, no. 17. Book will be included with the sale.