Advanced Search 
Embossed gold pectoral
Coclé
A.D. 700–1520
Place of Origin: Coclé Province, Panama, Sitio Conte area
Medium/Technique
Gold alloy
Dimensions
9.52 x 9.52 cm (3 3/4 x 3 3/4 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Landon T. Clay
Accession Number1972.943
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Pectorals
DescriptionHammered gold disk embossed with the bilaterally symmetrical image of a saurian, perhaps based on the crocodile. Four pairs of perforations allow for suspension or typing onto clothing. One of a pair (see 1972.942).
ProvenanceAfter about 1930, excavated in the Sitio Conte area, Coclé Province, Panama. Between about 1950 and 1955, acquired from a private collection, San Jose, Costa Rica by Paul Pasher and, about 1955, entrusted by him to Manuel Miranda Pinto, San Salvador, El Salvador; April 1970, returned by Manuel Miranda Pinto to Paul Pasher, New York; 1970, sold by Paul Pasher to the Edward H. Merrin Gallery, New York; 1971, sold by Merrin Gallery to Landon T. Clay, Boston; 1972, gift of Landon T. Clay to the MFA. (Accession Date: October 11, 1972)
NOTE: Before acquiring Paul Pasher's collection of Panamanian gold (accession nos. 1971.783-1971.1129 and 1972.940-1972.944) the MFA contacted the National Commission on Historical Archaeology and Monuments, Panama; the president of the Commission responded that no objections were raised to the acquisition.
NOTE: Before acquiring Paul Pasher's collection of Panamanian gold (accession nos. 1971.783-1971.1129 and 1972.940-1972.944) the MFA contacted the National Commission on Historical Archaeology and Monuments, Panama; the president of the Commission responded that no objections were raised to the acquisition.