Pre-Columbian, Panama or Costa Rica, Veraguas (Chiriqui), ca. 900 to 1550 CE. This is a lovely 64% (equivalent to 15K+) gold stylized frog pendant cast via the lost wax (cire perdue) process. This piece is highly abstract, but elegant; the T-shaped body hammered from a thick sheet, the simplified hind legs are merely flattened rectangles, protruding at right angles from the body, but suggest the muscular hopping capability. Atop the head are applied granulated eyes and a pair of curving snakes with triangular heads projecting from the frog's mouth, like tongues, with attached spirals along the curve of their bodies. The underside of the concave frog has a pair of front feet that serve as suspension loops. Size: 2.125" L x 2" W (5.4 cm x 5.1 cm); gold quality: 64% (equivalent to 15K+); weight: 16.6 grams

Imagine the brilliantly colored tree frogs inhabiting the lush rain forests of Costa Rica and Panama; these amphibians are the inspiration for this goldwork of the region. This frog pendant is not only impressive for its precious goldwork and artistry, but also deeply symbolic as frogs signified seasonal rainfalls as well as fertility. Ancient societies of Central America used gold ornaments to symbolize power and honor in both life and death. Gold was so highly regarded that leaders were buried surrounded by goldworks, including frogs like this example.

Provenance: private Hidden Valley Lake, California, USA collection; ex-Rbfinearts, Tavares Florida, USA, January 18th, 2020, Lot# 112

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#170621

Loss to corners of both feet. Surface abrasions throughout, especially high pointed areas. Slight bending of form. Green patina on serpent spiral. Black patina and toning throughout.