Description:

Pre-Columbian, Columbia, Tairona culture, ca. 1000 CE. Finely carved shell ornament depicting a zoomorphic or birdman creature, most likely a frigatebird. The ancient Tairona artisans featured depictions of frigatebirds on pectorals and pendants that were used as chiefly regalia. Although scholars have not uncovered the significance of these creatures, the frigatebird was believed to have been associated with the sky, daytime, and water. Note the meticulously carved silhouette and incised details, not to mention the gorgeous coloring of the piece. Custom, museum-quality stand. 3-1/2"H x 5"W

Provenance: Ex-Private Santa Fe, NM Collection

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  • Condition: Near choice

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October 24, 2014 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$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 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000