Precolumbian Art - Lower Central America and Caribbean
The major archaeological cultural phases in pre-Columbian Costa Rica are Guanacaste-Nicoya and Chorotegas.
The major archaeological cultural phases in pre-Columbian Panama are La Mula, Tonosi, Cubita, Macaracas, Veraguas, and Sitio Conte – Gran Coclé.
The major archaeological cultural phases of the Pre-Columbian Caribbean Islands are Saladoid and Taino.
Amid this diverse cultural heritage, an extraordinary selection of Pre-Columbian artifacts from these regions will be showcased. This includes pottery vessels adorned with detailed patterns, stone pieces skillfully carved to reflect spiritual and functional significance, and bone artifacts that illustrate unique craftsmanship and ritual uses. These treasures provide a window into the daily life, belief systems, and artistic traditions of ancient Central American and Caribbean societies. The collection aims to highlight the cultural depth and sophisticated artistry of these civilizations, offering viewers a meaningful connection to their lasting heritage.
Costa Rican Jade Avian Axe God Pendant
Costa Rican Avian Axe God pendant, finely carved from lustrous green jade, is a powerful example of Pre-Columbian artistry from the Greater Nicoya region
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Taino Shell Mask Pendant
An excellent Taíno shell pendant featuring a striking anthropomorphic mask design. The shell has been carefully carved and perforated to create a stylized face
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Taino Cacique Duho Ritual Seat
Rare Taino duho ritual seat (ca. 1000–1500 AD) with Zemi head carvings, crafted from lignum vitae. Discover this ceremonial artifact of Taino elite culture
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An Exquisite Taino Bone Purging Stick
The Taino purging stick, also known as the spatula, vomitivo, or vomit stick, was a significant tool in spiritual cleansing rituals. Carved from materials like
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Guanacaste-Nicoya Jade Bird-Celt Pendant
Bird celt with a smoothly flowing shape sets off admirably the quality of the stone and its polish. Gorgeous pale sea-green jade with veins of white. Rounded...
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Nicoya Teeth, Stone and Shell Choker
This stunning, colorful choker necklace is from the ancient Nicoya region of Costa Rica. It is a remarkable example of pre-Columbian jewelry artistry...
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Coclé Macaracas Pedestal Plate
The imagery on this vessel depicts an early-stage shaman transforming into a saurian creature within the basin. Long exaggerated claws with serrated stingray
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Guanacaste-Nicoya Jade Axe God
This Olmecoid-type jade celt features exquisite low-relief carving with fine curvilinear incising, presenting a highly polished surface. It includes drilled...
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Guanacaste Costa Rican Incensario
A wonderful Potosi Applique with crocodilian effigy. This ritual incense burner has a top cover finalized with a portrayal of an aggressive spiny Caiman...
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Costa Rican Stone Sukia
This finely crafted small sculpture, carved from rough volcanic stone, depicts a seated nude Sukia medicine man from the Guapiles region of Costa Rica...
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Costa Rican Stone Trophy Head
This finely crafted Costa Rican trophy head is a striking representation of ancient artistry, carved from a fine-grained basalt stone. The stone's quality is...
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Jade Axe God Pendant Celt
Costa Rican Anthropomorphic Axe God Pendant. It is carved in low relief with a highly glass-like polish front—linear incising for all facial features.
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