Birds hold a special place in the mythology of ancient Costa Rica, and there is no question that this lovely piece glows with an unspoken magic. Originally meant to support a round-bottomed bowl, it most likely served in a ritual capacity or as a tomb offering. Though the bird guardians watch alertly in all directions, they seem not to have noticed that their load has vanished with time. A rare and splendid example of a functional object that has transcended into the realm of art.