Live Auction
Lot 221
Pre-Columbian Mixtec or Tairona Gold Tone Eagle or Saurian Head Lip Plug
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Starting Bid
$1,000
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $5 |
| $50 | $10 |
| $150 | $25 |
| $500 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $250 |
| $4,000 | $500 |
| $15,000 | $1,000 |
| $50,000 | $2,500 |
| $100,000 | $5,000 |
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
Available payment options
Congratulations on your winning! As per policy, balances of $2500 or more will need to be paid via bank wire, Zelle, check or money order. See below for payment instructions: Zelle: Send payment to williamsonauction@gmail.com • Wire Transfer: Domestic: WIRE Bank of America Routing: 026009593 Account: 898161769476 Williamson Auction Gallery International: Swift Code:BOFAUS3N Swift Code: BOFAUS6S-NON US CURRENCY Bank of America Account: 898161769476 Bank Address: 222 Broadway, New York, Ny 10038 Check: Williamson Auction Gallery 3816 N 29th Ave Hollywood, FL 33020
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