Articulated Pendant, Supernatural Two-headed Bird. Diquís. A.D. 700 - 1500. Gold, Weight 192.72 grams. Height 3 15/16 in. W... (Total: 1 Item Item)

Description

Articulated Pendant, Supernatural Two-headed Bird
Diquís
A.D. 700 - 1500
Gold, Weight 192.72 grams
Height 3 15/16 in. Width 3 5/8 in.

This bird-form pendant is distinguished by its very rarely seen articulated double heads flanked by profile supernatural zoomorphs. These latter with open, toothed mouths have spiralled bubble forms along both tops and bottoms of their necks. The bird heads have curled frontal crests, and their downward-curving upper beaks fuse into hooks as well as having loops at the point of curvature. Massive feet on the rattle chamber body have five talons on each foot, below which hang two more large hooks. The rattle is gone from the body chamber, and lack of wear on any of the hooks suggests that danglers may never have been added. Articulation served to animate further the spirit content of such images, and the doubling of heads probably implied a range of dualities embodied by the portrayed supernatural. A closely similar example is one of the treasures of Costa Rica's Museo del Oro Precolombino. The condition is excellent.

The lot is sold with a statement of authenticity from the distinguished expert Robert Sonin.

Provenance
Charles Craig, Santa Barbara





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