Axe God Smooth-Faced Pendant

Nicoya culture, Pre-Columbian

500 - 750

  • Titles Axe God Smooth-Faced Pendant (Descriptive)
  • Artist Nicoya culture, Costa Rica
  • Medium stone
  • Dimensions 3 3/4 in. (8.9 cm)
  • Credit Line Collection of the Art Fund, Inc. at the Birmingham Museum of Art; Gift of Mr. Everett Hatcher, AFI.8.1982
  • Work Type pendant
  • Classification Jewelry

See More of the Collection

Ceremonial knife with handle in form of a figure identified as Sicán Deity. Figure wears elaborate headdress inlaid with turquoise, ear ornaments with turquoise, and holds tumi knife in one hand, and human heart or head in other hand.
human face
Large, flat bottomed bowl with slightly out slanting walls with the face of the Sun God appliqued on the front; oval eyes with heavy brows; large hooked nose; face framed by rows of buttons and scrolls; narrow high flanges
hunchback; staff