|
|
 |
|
Costa Rica, Diquis region
Frog Pendant
|
Costa Rican, Diquis region, Chiriqui culture
Figural Pendant
|
Costa Rican, Guanacaste-Nicoya Zone
Jaguar Effigy Incense Burner
|
Costa Rica, Guanacaste-Nicoya region
Crocodile Effigy Vessel
|
Costa Rican, Guanacaste or Diquis Region
Peccary Effigy Jar
|
Costa Rican, Guanacaste-Nicoya Zone
Ax God
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
    |
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
Focus Works of Art
Ax God
|
|
|
|
Costa Rican, Guanacaste-Nicoya Zone
(Ancient American)
Ax God,
about 200-400 |
|
|
Jadeite was the most precious of all materials to ancient cultures in Central America, more valued even than gold. Jadeite and similar greenstone pendants were worn as emblems of social and political power. One of the most common forms was the so-called ax god pendant, which was suspended from a cord around the neck. The name "ax god" comes from the form of the pendant, which copies the shape of a stone ax. The bird represents a supernatural spirit, or god. Its shape is simplified, but you can see the head feathers and the triangle-shaped beak.
|
|
 |
|
Below are suggestions for using the Focus Work of Art with students in the classroom. The activity and discussion ideas are listed in order of difficulty. The activity instructions and italicized discussion questions may be presented directly to students. The icons below each suggestion note the related subject area(s). Click on each icon to determine which subject area it represents. Browse the thematic Lesson Plans for more ideas on how to use this work of art and theme in the classroom. |
- The Myth of the Ax God
Write a myth about the ax god based on the visual details of this sculpture.
 
- The Qualities of Jade
Compare this piece of jadeite to three other samples of jade. Based on your observations, write a brief physical description of the gemstone, taking into consideration its variability in color, texture and luminosity. See the following Web sites on gems, jade facts and the jade myth for more information.
- Mapping Jade
Investigate sources of jade in the Americas. Locate these sources on a map and consider the value of this material in different parts of the Americas. See the following Web sites on gems, jade facts and the jade myth for more information.
- The Power of Jade
There is a belief that jade can ward off kidney ailments. Write a story that explains how this practice began.
- Amulets
Create an amulet that represents a figure, animal or plant with curative powers.
|
|
)
