A Narino Hammered Gold Pectoral, ca. 500 - 1000 CE

For several centuries large chest-sized pectorals of gold were made in ancient Colombia in different styles. Many were plain--virtually without decoration of any sort--relying completely on shape and surface for presence and character. This circular pectoral, of heavy sheet gold, displays a simple design of six relief geometric elements and an inner and outer border of raised dots, thus providing a visually successful complement to the overall elegant simplicity.  Double perforations at the top for attachment. Condition: A minor 3/8-inch linear perforation in the lower center and a few crease lines, otherwise intact and in very good condition overall.  Custom framed using museum-quality conservation materials, this object can be displayed using either an easel or on a wall.Dimensions: Width: 5 1/8 inches (13 cm), Weight:  24 gramsProvenance: Private NYC collection, acquired between 1950s-1980s, collection number recorded as: FM 841, 46.