Hello Nuno,

Thank you for choosing Mearto for your online appraisal.

Based on the images and information you provided, this item is:

An animal Pendant, from Pre-columbian era. Derived from an artifact within the holdings of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library, this versatile pin doubles as a pendant. Its intricate and abstract design is inspired by a crocodile motif hailing from an archaeological site within the Intermediate Area, which closely aligns with the contemporary Panamanian province of Coclé.

The Panamanian province of Coclé, known for its rich archaeological history, has yielded a fascinating array of animal pendants, particularly those from the Pre-Columbian period. These animal pendants were crafted by indigenous cultures that inhabited the region long before the arrival of Europeans.

Besides specific animals, Coclé artisans also created abstract zoomorphic pendants that combined elements of different animals or merged human and animal features. These pieces often had symbolic meanings that are not always easy to decipher.

Good condition