An Important Tairona Gold Pendant...

Description

An Important Tairona Gold Pendant
Colombia, c. 1000 - 1400 AD

Finely detailed gold alloy (tumbaga). Depicts a crouching figure grasping at its waist a braided rope or snake curled at each end. A wide braided collar at the shoulders. The head is that of a transformation figure with the head and mouth of a crocodile extending into a large bird beak. To the sides of the head are large wing-like arches, each with a bat hanging upside-down beneath. Between the arches is a vertical band ending in two scrolls. There is a loop at the top of each crescent and at each end of the horizontal bars. These would have held a metal dangle. Two loops on the back for suspension. In excellent condition. That this is a masterpiece of its type cannot be overstated.

This lot is accompanied by a 1972 receipt and a 1980 letter of authenticity written by Allan Caplan, New York, NY.

Provenance:
Purchased by the current owner in Bogata, Columbia in 1972

Height: 2 ½ inches

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