Diquís Gold Pendant Depicting Double-Monkey Figures On Top of a Ring
Diquís Gold Pendant Depicting Double-Monkey Figures On Top of a Ring
Diquís, Costa Rica, Panama, Ca. 500-1550 AD
(146,3 gram)
FJ.6243 Gold Double-Monkey Ring Pendant
The fabulous imagery of Costa Rican gold jewellery is as marvellous as the artistry needed to create them. A myriad of animals from spiders to lobsters to purely mythical creatures adorn the variety of pendants and pectorals. Yet, few have the inimitable charm monkeys possess; and when they come in pairs, the pleasure is doubled! This lovely pendant is unique in its oval shape, which is powerful in its simplicity and delicately ornamented with S-shaped designs. The monkeys perched on this ring hold tightly onto a bar which is curved at the ends like a ceremonial staff. Wonderful abstract detail is blended with pure realism. Their arms are thin rods cleverly twisted in the pose monkeys adopt, ending in very finely modelled fingers. They each wear a sort of vertical head band, extending from the top of their heads joining with the eyebrows. The monkeys stare wide eyed in amazement as if seeing something incomprehensible and very astonishing. They appear to be riding the ring, as in fact they would have been while the pendant was pinned to its owner; who may have donned it for important ritual ceremonies. The jangling bead inside would have announced the approach of the person and his proud monkeys. This wonderful pendant possesses a delight and magical charm that is instantly endearing, and yet mystifying at the same time. Something extraordinary is going on here, and if we watch long enough, we too might go along with these clever characters into another realm.