Pre-Columbian, Colombia, Sinu Valley (Tairona or Quimbaya peoples), ca. 4th to 11th centuries CE. A large gold (83% pure, equivalent to 20K+) pendant made of meticulously hammered gold, its surface incredibly smooth, aside from a tiny projecting head, which is three-dimensional. The body features a large tail and outstretched wings. The square-shaped head has a tiny vertical loop for suspension above an elongated beak. The majority of gold items from ancient Central and northern South America were made to be worn, and the loop on the face of this piece indicates that it was likely sewn onto an item of clothing, worn by the living and ultimately buried with the dead. Size: 4.5" W x 3.75" H (11.4 cm x 9.5 cm); 4.05" H (10.3 cm) on included custom stand; gold is 83% pure, equivalent to 20K+; total weight: 15.1 grams

Provenance: ex-Merrin Gallery, New York, New York, USA; ex-private E. H. Merrin Gallery, New York, USA, 1960s

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#148153

Repaired across one wing, the tail, and at the upper corner of the other wing. Nice preservation of detail.