Colombia: Muisca Tumbaga gold Pectoral (Breastplate) ND (c. 600-1600 AD), ...
(click for full-size image)
|
|
|
|
|
Muisca Tumbaga gold Pectoral (Breastplate) ND (c. 600-1600 AD), 170x138x20mm. 249.48gm. XRF: 81% Copper, 12% Tin, 6% Gold, likely with added depletion-gilding technique. An incredible piece of Pre-Columbian history, believed to have originated from the Muisca culture, which inspired the myth of El Dorado. One glance of this artifact reveals the expert craftsmanship of this culture, and their advanced metalworking. These breastplates were believed to be worn during ritualistic ceremonies by the Muisca shamans and caciques, clearly portraying anthropo-zoomorphic symbolism. The protruding bird specifically hold great figurative weight, alluding to spiritual transformation and the ability to draw closer to heaven. The Tumbaga, a term learnt by Conquistadors in their first expeditions, were low-fineness, gold or silver ornate relics treasured by original American cultures. From idols to jewelry, mortuary masks to ceremonial ornaments, these were the first precious metal spoils looted by the Spaniards during their incursions into the continent. Though a few intricate and lavish pieces were brought back to Spain, most were crudely melted down--some theorizing they used the native's methods of casting--and swiftly shipped to the King. HID07901242017 www.HA.com/TexasAuctioneerLicenseNotice
|
Enter the message you would like to email to this Dealer
(click for full-size image)
(click for full-size image)
|
|