A fine Sinú Gold Bird Pendant, ca. 500 - 1000 CE
This object qualifies for free USA shipping and a flat rate fee of $60 if shipping internationally.
Perhaps more than any other Sinú works of art, this charming figurative pendant offers a tantalizing glimpse into Sinú cosmology and mythology — as well as of their appreciation for the natural environment. With its outstretched wings, curved beak, and trapezoidal body, it displays a perfection and abstract purity of form. This archaic motif is based upon the powerful birds of prey (eagles, vultures, hawks, etc.) that signify shamanic power and supreme status throughout the Americas. Birds supplied rich metaphors for an ability to mediate between all worlds, whether nature or spirit. The symbolic relationship between birds and human beings was, therefore, a primary aesthetic theme for Sinú goldsmiths. Cast in gold using the lost wax process, this pendant thus resonates with Sinú beliefs linking gold, a material of spiritual essence and efficacy, with metaphysical transformation and shamanic metamorphosis.
Medium: Gold
Dimensions: Height: 1.9 cm (0.74 inch). Strung on an 18K yellow gold chain that can be adjusted up to 18 inches
Condition: The pendant is intact and in excellent condition overall.
Provenance: Private Danish collection, acquired 1970’s, thereafter private NYC collection, acquired from the trade in the early 2000’s.
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We ship Tuesday to Friday with FedEx and usually same day if your order is received before 2pm. Within the continental USA, packing, shipping and insurance is free. Depending on size and destination, delivery times range from one to five business days.
For overseas shipments we charge a small flat rate which includes packing, preparation of all customs paperwork, insurance and carrier fees in compliance with all USA and International customs requirements.
Overseas shipments are sent using FedEx International priority but contact us if you have a shipping preference. International customers are responsible for all duties and taxes.
Sands of Time provides a lifetime, unconditional guarantee of authenticity and provenance. Every object you purchase from us is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, stating culture, provenance, and age.
Furthermore, we conduct due diligence to ensure the item, to the best of our knowledge, has not been illegally obtained from an excavation, architectural monument, public institution, or private property. Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.Wherever possible, reference is made to existing collections or publications.
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