Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird
Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird

Veraguas High Karat Gold Bird

16525

$14,500.00
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Panama Ca. 500 to 1550 AD.   

The raptorial bird cast and hammered with pointed ears, hook beak, small feet with individual talons, spiral ear ornaments and necklace.  Large wings and tail fan spread.  A loop hole for suspension behind.  
Size 9.1cm H x 11.5 cm W.; 4-1/2 inches H x 3-1/2 inches W.; 22k; weight  77.3g.

XRF elemental analysis report shows it is 22.0K gold with a composition of:
91.76% Gold (Au)
6.78% Silver (Ag)
1.20% Copper (Cu)
0.26% Iron (Fe)1

The composition and style are consistent with Pre-Columbian goldwork, which typically used natural gold alloys containing silver and copper from alluvial deposits. The bird-like design with spread wings is characteristic of Pre-Columbian artistic motifs, particularly those from cultures in Panama and Colombia during the period of 300-1550 AD.

The object appears to have been crafted using traditional Pre-Columbian metalworking techniques, likely through lost-wax casting or sheet forming. The analysis was performed using an ElvaX spectrometer, providing precise measurements of its elemental composition. The lack of plating detection and the specific gold content around 22K aligns with known Pre-Columbian metallurgical practices.

This type of ornamental piece would have held both decorative and symbolic significance in Pre-Columbian societies. Gold was considered a symbol of authority and spiritual power, not monetary value. The bird motif was commonly used in Pre-Columbian artwork, particularly in ceremonial and high-status objects

Compare similar example in 'To Capture the Sun: Gold of Ancient Panama, the Gilcrease Museum’

Provenance: From the estate of Andres Illies, who inherited it from his grandfather, Ferdinand Grebien. Mr. Ferdinand Grebien was born in Austria, and arrived in Panama in 1911 to work on the construction of the canal. He founded Grebien & Martinz, a major private construction firm, (with more than 1000 employees) that went on to build many major institutions in Panama, including the Municipal Palace of the District of Colón. Grebien was an avid collector of ancient Pre Columbian gold. Shown in the listing is a photo of Ferdinand Grebien displaying part of his gold collection at the 1964 World’s fair in NY.

All pieces are unconditionally guaranteed authentic and as described in perpetuity and have been legally acquired and imported in full accordance with U.S. and applicable foreign regulations regarding the movement and sale of antiquities.

A signed guarantee of authenticity with a description and photograph of the item(s) accompanies this object.

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