Tumbaga Pendant of an Eagle - FJ.4195, Origin: Panama, Circa: 800 AD to 1200 AD, Dimensions: 2.5" (6.4cm) high, Catalogue: V7, Collection: Pre-Columbian, Style: Panamanian, Medium: Tumbaga. When Columbus and his men first arrived on the shores of the New World, they found the native peoples wearing golden pendants shaped like birds of prey. The tradition for these eagle ornaments was already ancient, and variations were known throughout Central America. The prominent beak and claws give this bird a fierce, predatory look; while his radiant plumage makes him seem a creature from myth. Centuries ago he might have hung around the neck of a warrior as a symbol of bravery. His abstract beauty gives him a timeless appeal. In the presence of such a treasure we can imagine an entire world filled with bright and shining gold.

Antiquities
Ancient Weapons