Jan 28, 2020
Jan 28, 2020

Bird Bead

Bird Bead

c. 900–1550

Part of a set. See all set records

Cast gold

Gift of Mrs. Edward S. Harkness in memory of Mrs. Stephen V. Harkness 1949.190.b

Location

Description

Muisca metalwork divides into two categories: ornaments to be worn, such as these, and offering figurines, in the case to the right. The elaborate bird pendant features delicate herringbone moldings, openwork patterns, and wing details-all part of the wax model from which the pendant was cast (see nearby computer animation). The dangles were attached after casting.

Video

The Lost-Wax Casting Process
See also

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