Diquis Gold Pendant of a Frog/Crocodile Composite Creature

Subject matter in Diquis jewelry was strictly controlled. Three of the most important animal subjects are the jaguar, crocodile and frog. This fabulous pendant combines two of these fused together into an imaginary creature that leaves us awed and mystified. The body is that of a frog, with its bulbous middle, protruding eyes and amphibian hind legs. Its head suddenly turns into that of a crocodile’s, its fierce teeth bitting into a rope which is attached to the legs. The stylized crocodile motif is given full reign in the heads on the ends of the limbs, along with dual ones extending over the mouth. The horizontal bar topped by a row of triangles at the base is an unusual feature, and gives stability to the flamboyant activity of the body. It is likely this pendant was made for someone of importance, a chief/shaman, who wore it during ritual ceremonies. Though it may no longer serve its original purpose, a work of art this power shines with its own radiance wherever it may be. – (FJ.6320)