Nose Ornament

10th–16th century

Not on view

This ornament is probably from the middle Cauca River valley, where the classic Quimbaya culture flourished prior to the tenth century. This culture is renowned for expertly cast, hollow gold objects made from wax models. These objects, often containers in the form of human figures, display a high degree of realism, elegance, and technical perfection. After the classic period the use of sheet gold increased and ornaments became simpler.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

References

Title: Nose Ornament
Date: 10th–16th century
Geography: Colombia, Rio Cauca region
Culture: Quimbaya (?)
Medium: Gold
Dimensions: H. 1 5/8 × W. 4 1/8 × D. 1/8 in. (4.1 × 10.5 × 0.3 cm)
Classification: Metal-Ornaments
Credit Line: The Michael C. Rockefeller Memorial Collection, Bequest of Nelson A. Rockefeller, 1979
Object Number: 1979.206.499
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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