Description: 

This artifact is a stylized representation of a bird, likely an eagle or a condor, which were important figures in the cosmology and mythology of pre-Columbian cultures.

• Material and Technique: The piece is made of gold, possibly an alloy like tumbaga (a mixture of gold and copper) which was often surface-enriched to give the appearance of pure gold. It was likely created using the lost-wax casting method, a complex technique mastered by ancient goldsmiths.
• Design and Iconography: The design features a prominent, curved beak and ornate detailing, characteristic of the powerful imagery of a bird of prey. The specific culture of origin (e.g., Tairona, Quimbaya, or Zenu from Colombia, or Diquis/Veraguas from Panama/Costa Rica) would inform the exact symbolism, but generally, such birds symbolized power, the heavens, and the transformation of a shaman into a bird-man during rituals.
• Function: As a pendant, this object was designed to be worn suspended around the neck, serving as a powerful protective emblem or an indicator of status for the wearer.

The intricate craftsmanship and symbolic design highlight the high level of sophistication in metallurgy and artistry among the ancient peoples of the Americas.

Dimensions: H:1in W:1in W:.5in

Weight: 7.6 grams