Veraguas Gold Raptor Bird Pendant

Panama Circa 500 to 1520 AD   The raptorial bird cast with bulging eyes and hook beak, small feet with individual talons.  Large wings and tail spread. The wings with indications of feathers;  loophole for suspension behind.  The bird-like design with curved wings and stylized features is characteristic of Panamanian goldwork. The Veraguas were known for creating fantastical three-dimensional images of birds and other animals found in their wetland environment and they produced ceremonial adornments that expressed social, religious, and ritual themes using gold as a symbol of rank and prestige.  Their goldsmiths created elaborate pieces for both ceremonial use and as burial offerings for their leaders. This type of ornamental piece would have likely served a ceremonial or status-indicating purpose, as gold in Pre-Columbian societies was primarily used for ritual and regalia rather than utilitarian purposesSize 9.1cm H x 11.5 cm W.; 2-3/8 inches H x 3-1/4 inches W.; 22k; weight  52g. XR