A fine Andean Bird Pendant, ca. 500 - 1500 CE

Carved into the shape of a condor, facing skyward with stylized wings and tail.

The Andean condor is a sacred bird and a significant part of Andean mythology and traditions, associated with the sun deity, power, health, and the upper world. The Incas believed the condor was a messenger to the gods and that it brought the sun into the sky each morning. They also considered the condor an immortal representation of the Jananpacha, which is the sky, upper world, and future.

In Inca society, the condor represented the heavens, one of the three realms of existence.  The snake represented the underworld, and the jaguar represented the earth. These cultural references can be seen throughout Inca society, including in their architecture. For example, Machu Picchu, is shaped like a condor when viewed from a nearby mountaintop. 

Medium: Red jasper

Dimensions: Height: 1 7/8 inches (4.6 cm). Strung on an 18K yellow gold chain adjustable up to 18 inches.

Condition:  Minor chip to the tail that does not detract, otherwise intact and in very good condition overall.  A charming piece!

Provenance: Private Danish collection, acquired 1970’s, thereafter private NYC collection, acquired from the trade in the early 2000s.