Disk-Shaped Chest Plaque

c. 700–1550
Overall: 19.8 x 19.6 x 2.5 cm (7 13/16 x 7 11/16 x 1 in.)
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Description

Technologically, this pectoral (chest plaque) is unlike the other gold shown in this case. Rather than being cast of molten metal, it was made by hammering metal into a thin sheet. Costa Rican and Panamanian metalsmiths favored casting, but they were skilled in hammering, a technology better suited to creating large objects with glittering, reflective surfaces. The import of the breast-like protrusions is unknown.
Disk-Shaped Chest Plaque

Disk-Shaped Chest Plaque

c. 700–1550

Costa Rica or Panama

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