An Uraba Quimbaya Gold Tweezer Pendant ...

Description

An Uraba Quimbaya Gold Tweezer Pendant
Uraba Antioquia, Colombia, c. 400-1000 AD

A tweezer in a modified Uraba Quimbaya style, it could also be described as in the ancient International Style that stretched from Central Colombia into Panama. This was cast, hammered and polished. It has an animated face - the eyes are arched, the nose somewhat raised or pinched, and the lips pull down at the corners of the mouth. The expression is not serene as is the Classic Quimbaya face - in fact, the facial features might be interpreted as expressing amusement or pain. Condition: a minor dent and small hairline crack on front flange of tweezer, otherwise in excellent condition.

Tweezer gold ornaments were fashioned throughout Colombia. Although they resemble tweezers for plucking facial hair, these objects were probably pendants that had no utilitarian function.

Provenance:
Private Collection, New York
Acquired by the current collection in 1994
Merrin Gallery, New York

Height: 4 inches

More Information: Weight: 56 grams




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