A Rare Calima Gold Portrait Mask...

Description

A Rare Calima Gold Portrait Mask
Colombia, c. 600-200 BC

Life size hammered sheet gold masks are the largest objects produced in gold in the ancient Americas. While most masks were presumably made as burial offerings, this example, with its pierced eyes, open mouth with clenched teeth, and additional holes for tying at the sides, could have been worn by an individual during life in a ritual or ceremony before being placed with his material wealth in a tomb. Calima masks are often flat, with generic facial features. This amazing one -- probably a portrait -- has features that are unique and individualized, with a snub nose with flared nostrils, puffy cheeks, and the mouth set in a fierce expression. In very good condition, typical creasing all over,

Accompanied by an analytical report from Orenda Labs, Santa Fe, NM, dated 1-9-2022, indicating a composition of 99% 21 karat gold.

Width: 8 ½ inches

More Information: Orenda Labs analysis indicates Gold = 99%; Copper = .5%; Silver = .3%. Weight: 94 grams


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