Tairona Gold Pendant (Condor)

Tairona Gold Pendant (Condor) 1

Material/Specs: High-karat tumbaga gold alloy.

Context & Provenance

When It Was Found (Creation Context)

Unearthed during unauthorized excavation in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta region in 1965.

Country & Location of Origin

Tairona Culture, Gran Colombia

Real History & Interpretation

Crafted using sophisticated goldsmith techniques, including lost-wax casting and hammering, this pendant depicts a stylized condor or eagle—a messenger between the earthly and spiritual realms. It likely belonged to a high-ranking chief or spiritual leader.

Image Licensing Note: All visuals for artifacts in this collection are assumed to be licensed under Creative Commons or Public Domain for educational display purposes.