Pre-Columbian, Central America, Panama, Gran Cocle, ca. 750 to 950 CE. An exquisite collection of 5 bells cast via the lost wax process from 63.6% to 66.5% (equivalent to 15K+) gold! Each has a teardrop shape, a textured body using a cording technique, expanding to a hollow resonator with a slit opening rim, and a raised lip. The metal pellet clappers are intact, and each bell emits a high tinkling sound. The spiraling corded surface was created by placing threads of wax on the mold core surface before smelting- resulting in these delicate grooves. Interestingly the clapper ball was cast beforehand then imbedded inside the mold core, which burned away or was removed after casting, allowing the clapper to move freely inside the bell! The surfaces are a radiant and perfect for displaying! Size (bells): 1.25" L x 0.42" W (3.2 cm x 1.1 cm); (case): 3.24" L x 4.25" W (8.2 cm x 10.8 cm); gold quality: 63.6% to 66.5% (equivalent to 15K+); total weight: 35.4 grams

Gold ornamentation like this example has been discovered in ancient Panamanian graves and in deposits within cenotes that perhaps signify ritual purpose. Elites in the Cocle culture seem to have adorned themselves in ornate, skillfully crafted gold finery created mostly from deposits of gold ore found in rivers and other shallow bodies of water.

Provenance: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-private Arkansas, USA collection, via descent in 2021; ex-private Florida estate, USA, acquired from the 1960s to 1970s

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#171680

Small losses and chip along opening slit mouth on 2 bells, otherwise all are excellent. Displayed in modern Riker case.