A Gold Frog Pendant...

Description

A Gold Frog Pendant
Panama, probably Coclé or Greater Chiriquí, c. 800-1200 AD

Finely worked in rich gold alloy, this pendant takes the form of a frog with ringed ball eyes, a tapering body, pointed legs, and broad feet or fin-like terminals. From the mouth issue streaming bands that terminate in serpent or caiman heads, their backs enriched with tight scrolls. The composition is at once compact and expansive, with the creature's body opening outward into a symmetrical display of flowing, animated forms. Two loops at the reverse allowed the pendant to be suspended. A vivid and imaginative example of Isthmian goldwork, uniting amphibian and reptilian imagery in a design of unusual elegance and force. In excellent condition.

Height: 2 ½ inches

More Information: Handheld XRF surface reading: Au 76.95%, Cu 22.71%, with minor Ag (<0.283%) and minor Fe (<0.343%) likely reflecting surface contamination. The tested point reads as a gold-rich gold–copper alloy. Weight: 34 grams


Estimate: $4,000 - $6,000.

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