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Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Masked Figure Pendant
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Image courtesy of the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.

Masked Figure Pendant

Artifact ID1964.24.5
Object Type Pendant
Gifter
Date ca.1960
White House visitJuly 7, 1964
Medium Gold
DimensionsOverall H 1 5/16 in x W 11/16 in x D 1/4 in (3.3 cm x 1.7 cm x 0.6 cm )
Physical Description
Physical DescriptionCharm or pendant. Small cast gold figure wearing a "bee" mask. Cast loop on the back. No markings.
Historical NoteThis gold pendant was given to Lady Bird Johnson by His Excellency Francisco J. Orlich, President of the Republic of Costa Rica during an official White house visit on July 7, 1964. The pendant is from the Palmar Sur region of the Diquis Archaeological Zone on the Pacific Coast. It is a “masked figure” pendant, possibly wearing a bee mask. It is likely an amulet that served to reflect rank and/or status and was not just ornamental.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThe item was a gift from a foreign official to the President, First Lady or member of the First Family during President Johnson's term in office. It was received through the Executive Office of the President and maintained there until its transfer to the National Archives on January 20, 1969 for deposit with the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum.
Credit LineHis Excellency Francisco J. Orlich, President of the Republic of Costa Rica
National Archives Catalog CollectionLyndon B. Johnson Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 192413)
National Archives Catalog SeriesGifts of State (National Archives Identifier 189698376)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestricted
Use Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
In Collection(s)
Historical Dates
  • July 7, 1964
Not on view
Subjects
Bee
Place of Credit
Costa Rica