Due to an increase in population, inhabitants of the Atlantic Watershed Zone, in Costa Rica, were constantly competing for the most fertile lands. Trophy heads were often taken in battle as a ritual act that was considered necessary for agricultural fertility and the continuation of human life. The distinctive attributes of this warrior set him apart from others. He was an unusually long thin face and an elaborate geometric coiffure with a diamond pattern in the center, symbolizing the alligator. Saurian represented the earth and agricultural fertility in Meso-Americna religion. One wonders if this was a slain ancestor or a victim of sacrifice. This is a superb example of the artistic rendering of the time, which still has the power to move us today.