Bird Pendant

c. 1000–1550
Overall: 5.6 x 6.5 x 2 cm (2 3/16 x 2 9/16 x 13/16 in.)
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Description

The kinds of birds represented in pendants of the isthmus are not clear, though the emphasis on spread wings and flight suggests birds that soar, such as eagles or hawks. In addition to their aerial agility, they are powerful birds of prey and, therefore, may have symbolized a warrior's or hunter's ferocity and skill. They were also often linked to the sun. Better understanding is difficult because the makers created no written records.
Bird Pendant

Bird Pendant

c. 1000–1550

Panama, Veraguas-Chiriquí style, 10th-16th century

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