Pendant in the Form of Two Frogs - FJ.6052, Origin: Costa Rica, Circa: 11 th Century AD to 16 th Century AD, Dimensions: 1.25" (3.2cm) high, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Pre-Columbian, Medium: Gold. Frogs appear frequently in the goldwork of Pre-Columbian Costa Rica, a tropical region in which numerous species of small frogs exist. Both tree frogs, which range in length from an inch to “giants” of five inches, and terrestrial frogs of small size and poisonous skin, are known. The frogs are often vibrantly colored; bright yellow and “gold colored” frogs are among them. It is possible that this pendant is a stylized representation of two tree frogs joined back-to-back; tree frogs have extremely long legs, like those seen projecting from the hind of these frogs, and equally long feet, here merged into flattened rectangles that turn into loops. However, the individual toes of their front feet are represented in careful detail. The frogs are sitting with their backs joined, and ethnographic evidence suggests that the posture of such works is often significant; however, this significance of this specific posture remains a mystery. They appear poised to jump at any moment. Where there hind feet join, the loops allow the work to be worn, either as a pendant hanging from a necklace or as some other type of jewelry. The unusual curved composition of the work defies a clear identifiable explanation as to its original use. Due to our limited comprehension of the rich mythological traditions of the Pre-Columbian Costa Ricans, the full meaning of this masterpiece remains clouded. Although we may never completely understand the cultural and religious importance of this work, we can revel in its outstanding beauty and skilled artistry.

Antiquities
Ancient Jewelry