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Animal-Headed Figure Pendant, c. 1000-1550 (cast gold)
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Animal-Headed Figure Pendant, c. 1000-1550 (cast gold)
XOS5871932 Animal-Headed Figure Pendant, c. 1000-1550 (cast gold) by Mesoamerican; 8.7x9 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: Costa Rica, DiquAis region, 11th-16th century
Among the pendants shown here are a crustacean (1943.290), an animal-headed figure (1948.18), and two pendants featuring birds (1951.442 and 1946.223). The latter were dubbed aguilas (eagles) by Christopher Columbus, who saw natives wearing them as necklace ornaments. Modern researchers are not as sure of the species shown, but some believe that they are birds of prey because talons and beaks are prominent and often clutch something, in one example here a small, disembodied head that holds a clapper. In both examples, two tufts in the form of crocodiles in profile flank the birdsA heads.); Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; out of copyright
Media ID 23267956
© Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA / Bridgeman Images
Costa Rica Costa Rican Diquis Figurine Pre Columbian Precolumbian Statuette Treasure
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases an exquisite Animal-Headed Figure Pendant, crafted from cast gold and dating back to the Mesoamerican era between 1000 and 1550. The pendant, measuring 8.7x9 cm, is currently housed in the prestigious Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio, USA. The pendant is part of a collection that includes various other fascinating pendants such as a crustacean, another animal-headed figure, and two bird-shaped pendants. These avian ornaments were referred to as "aguilas" (eagles) by Christopher Columbus himself when he encountered native people wearing them as necklace adornments during his voyages. While modern researchers are uncertain about the exact species depicted on these pendants, many believe they represent birds of prey due to their prominent talons and beaks often clutching objects. One intriguing example even features a small disembodied head holding a clapper. Flanking both bird-shaped pendants are two tufts resembling crocodiles in profile. This remarkable piece of ancient metalwork from Costa Rica's Diquis region offers us a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of pre-Columbian civilizations. Its intricate design and use of precious materials like gold make it truly treasured artwork within the realm of sculpture and statuettes. Bridgeman Images presents this photograph for non-commercial use only; it serves as a testament to the beauty and cultural significance found within historical artifacts like this Animal-Headed Figure Pendant.
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