Pre-Columbian, Colombia, Tairona, ca. 10th to 16th century CE. A wonderful tumbaga transformative figure - his body assuming the form of a sea crustacean, abstract yet representational at the same time, with eight legs and a tail, yet his face is that of a shaman or cacique (chieftain) with coffee bean shaped eyes, a prominent nose, and a petite closed mouth, adorned by sizeable spiral ear ornaments and a serpentine headdress. Two applied loops for suspension and/or attachment are on the verso. Whether an homage to a ruler, a supernatural ancestor, or a shaman in a state of spiritual and symbolic transformation, a powerful image such as this was likely intended for an individual of immense significance in Tairona society. Size: 5.25" H (13.3 cm); 6.125" H (15.6 cm) on included custom stand.

This piece has been has been tested for the presence or absence of particular elements via XRF elemental analysis. A basic 1-page summary of the XRF screening will accompany purchase, identifying each element present in the sample, as well as the quantity of elements present. A more complete analysis detailing historical data / comparisons is available for additional charge – please contact us.

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

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#140903

Loss to lower "tail" of crustacean body. Piece has expected areas of oxidation and surface wear commensurate with age. Nice warm patina.