Pre-Columbian, Central America, Panama, ca. 8th to 10th century CE. Simultaneously stunning and endearing, a wonderful 55% gold (equivalent to 12K+) frog amulet, finely cast via the lost wax (cire perdue) process, with twin integral loops below its raised front feet, perfect for suspending from your favorite gold chain. Ancient societies of Central America used gold ornaments to symbolize power and honor in both life and death. Leaders wore cast gold animals including frogs, hybrid human-animal figures, as well as composite beasts. 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. Size: 1.75″ L x 1.625″ W x .75″ H (4.4 cm x 4.1 cm x 1.9 cm); quality of gold: 55% (equivalent to 12K+); total weight: 23.5 grams.
Provenance: ex-Craig Hendrix collection, South Carolina, USA; ex Charles Craig Jr. collection, Costa Rica, acquired in the 1960s and 1970s
