Large Costa Rican Stone Figure w/ Trophy Heads

Pre-Columbian, Costa Rica, Atlantic watershed, ca. 300 to 800 CE. A very unique statue of a male figure, skillfully carved from volcanic stone, nude save a garland of severed head ornaments wrapped around his body. He holds an axe in his left hand which is held behind his back, and places his right hand atop his forehead as if peering into the distance or perhaps representing a ceremonial gesture.

His physiognomy is boldly rendered and presents a nicely delineated visage, feet/toes, and large hands/fingers. His expression is one of reverence with closed coffee bean shaped eyes framed by a thick browline that leads to the bridge of his nose, closed full lips, and protruding ears. The trophy head garland and that intimidating weapon he holds are gruesome reminders of mano a mano (hand to hand) combat as well as the ancient practice of valuing trophy heads which were understood as a shamanic means of protection from evil in ancient Costa Rica.

Condition: A few old surface chips here and there, particularly pronounced on the back of one leg. Otherwise intact with a weathered surface commensurate with age. Nice preservation of form. Covered with earthen deposits.