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Bat-shaman effigy pendant
Chiriquí or Diquís
A.D. 700–1550
Object Place: Panama or Costa Rica, Chiriquí or Diquís regions
Medium/Technique
Gold
Dimensions
6.5 x 3.1 cm (2 9/16 x 1 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Maria Wharton Wales Fund
Accession Number22.302
ClassificationsJewelry / Adornment – Pendants
DescriptionCast gold pendant representing a bat-headed male shaman holding a spherical rattle in his right hand. The left arm missing, likely having broken from the figure in ancient times. His elongated bat-like mouth is typical of the pendant tradition of the Chiriquí-Diquís region. A large ring behind the figure's right ear allows for suspension on a cord. A second ring originally may have been present behind the proper left ear, although this area now is well-smoothed.
Provenance1922, sold by Walter Channing Wyman (b. 1850 - d. 1923), Chicago, to the MFA [see note]. (Accession Date: February 2, 1922)
NOTE: Purchased as part of a group of 67 objects (MFA accession nos. 22.282 - 22.348) for $5000.
NOTE: Purchased as part of a group of 67 objects (MFA accession nos. 22.282 - 22.348) for $5000.