Description:

Pre-Columbian, Colombia, Tairona culture, ca. 1200 to 1500 CE. A beautiful tumbaga (gold and copper alloy) ornament in the form of a standing human figure. The figure is male, with a phallus, remaining leg bent at the knee, a distended belly, and flattened arms that he has spread out to the sides. His face is rather disturbing, with a wide, leering grin full of sharp teeth, bulging eyes, and a snub nose. He wears double-spiral earrings and a conical hat. The back of the piece is hollow and undecorated, with a loop for attachment. Spanish written sources from the contact period tell us that the Tairona had a deeply stratified society; tumbaga pendants like this one, given its artistry and iconography, were likely signs of rank. Size: 3.45" W x 4" H (8.8 cm x 10.2 cm); 4.55" H (11.6 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired in the 1970s to mid-1980s

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#140886

  • Condition: One leg is missing. One arm has been reattached. Small losses to the headdress and earrings. With a dark, mottled patina on the surface. Nice preservation of detail on face.

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December 6, 2018 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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