Description:

Pre-Columbian, Central America, Panama, Veraguas culture, ca. 700 to 1500 CE. A gold pendant depicting a human-bird hybrid with anthropomorphic arms extending outward and resting on a rounded stomach. This fusion of human and avian features reflects a spiritual worldview where humans, animals, and supernatural beings were interconnected. The human-bird hybrids depicted in gold ornaments likely represented shamans who could transform into animals or channel the power of the animal itself. This pendant stands out as a spectacular example, with its size and exceptional quality highlighting the skill of ancient artisans. Size: 2.2" L x 1.25" W x 3.3" H (5.6 cm x 3.2 cm x 8.4 cm); gold quality: 81.9% to 92.24% (equivalent to 19K+ to 22K+); weight: 67.6 grams

The wide distribution of gold ornaments across Central and South America, from Colombia to the Yucatan Peninsula, has led to similar pieces being categorized under the "International Style." The lack of precise archaeological provenance complicates efforts to attribute this pendant to a specific region, with prior attributions ranging from Veraguas and Chiriqui in Panama to the Sinu region of Colombia. This ambiguity underscores the interconnected cultural traditions of the area.

Provenance: private Parker, Colorado, USA collection; ex-Peyton Wright Gallery, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; ex-Don Tharpe collection, Midland, Vermont, USA, 2007; ex-Heritage Auctions, Dallas, Texas, USA, 2006; ex-David Bernstein Fine Art, New York, New York, USA; ex-Charles Craig collection, Santa Barbara, California, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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#190153

  • Condition: Bending and creasing to ends of thin panels, and losses to the tip of the flared tail. Missing a toe. Overall superb and choice.

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December 6, 2024 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000