Collection
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Arts of the Americas

Pendant in Form Anthropomorphic Avian Figure

Diquís

1 of 3

Object Label

While we do not know the significance of the figures on these gold pendants, the mixture of human and animal attributes suggests a mythical and supernatural universe. The ornaments were worn on necklaces, perhaps by political and religious leaders who recognized and valued their symbolism. The representations of anthropomorphic animals may allude to the transformative powers of shamans or their spirit helpers as they journey to supernatural realms.

Caption

Diquís. Pendant in Form Anthropomorphic Avian Figure, 700–1550 CE. Cast gold, 3 1/4 x 3 7/16in. (8.3 x 8.7cm). Brooklyn Museum, Alfred W. Jenkins Fund, 35.147. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)

Gallery

Not on view

Culture

Diquís

Title

Pendant in Form Anthropomorphic Avian Figure

Date

700–1550 CE

Medium

Cast gold

Classification

Ornament

Dimensions

3 1/4 x 3 7/16in. (8.3 x 8.7cm)

Credit Line

Alfred W. Jenkins Fund

Accession Number

35.147

Frequent Art Questions

  • Why can't we precisely date those gold pendants? 700-1550 is a huge time range!

    We don't know the precise dates because gold tends be difficult to date. Gold can be melted down and recreated into something else so it's especially hard to know. Also, the imagery in this culture didn't change too often.
    Even with carbon-14 technology?
    Carbon-14 can only be used to date organic materials. It doesn't work for objects made of metal or stone.

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Artists and makers

Diquís

3 works in the collection