Sculpture of a Standing Female

The Guanacaste region has become known as the most prolific center for sculpture in Central America. The variety of styles and materials used throughout the different periods created an art form of great complexity and exceptional beauty. This particular figure represents one of the many styles found. The purity of the white terracotta suggests innocence and virtue; cultural trademarks of great importance for women. The solidity of the figure is also important to her overall representation. She has a modest covering of a simple cloth on the front. Her hips and shoulders are broad, suggesting two things: physical strength and social position within her community. Her broad hips represent fertility and ease in bearing children; an extremely important factor in “tribal” communities. Her facial expression, however, is the most fascinating aspect of this pristine figure. The artist paid careful attention to every detail, bringing the face to life. The chiseled angularity of the face is heightened by the perfectly sculptured cheek and jaw line. The raised eyebrows, aligned beautifully with the nose, open up the eyes to create a piercing and penetrating stare. Simple strands of hair gathered at the back crown her head. The minimal amount of jewelry allows for greater concentration on the overall figure, allowing us to admire her true beauty both from the outside and inside. It is then we realize what she brings to us from a past rich in amazement and wonder.