Masterfully carved from a single piece of volcanic rock with only stone and wood tools plus abrasives, this dynamic masked figure is a splendid example of the ancient Pre-Columbian sculptural artistry of the Costa Rican area. Caught in attested motion, ready to rise at a moment's notice, the finely carved figure wears a fantastic alligator mask, replete with powerful teeth and curling snout. His spectacular two-tiered headdress recalls the Costa-Rican stools of similar shape that are also adorned with alligator masks. While the figure's right hand rests on his leg, his left hand clutches a necklace, the ornament forever a mystery behind the deftly carved fingers. Is this mystical figure the representation of a chief or a shaman? Who are the gods that he reverentially addresses? Clearly, his symbolic mask and headdress denote a person of spiritual rank and power. A magnificent rendering of three-dimensional form, this masked figure captivates us as we sense his barely-harnessed motion and feel the power and energy of his reptilian visage. The admirable harmonizing naturalistic rendering and an energetic spirit makes this figure a masterpiece of Pre-Columbian sculpture art.