An artwork on Galleree from Cleveland Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Figural Pendant1–800 CE
Colombia's Tolima region is justly famous for arrestingly abstracted figures like this one, among the largest of its kind. Such figures, worn as necklace pendants by chiefs and other elites, seem to be based on the human form. But they also incorporate animal features, often an upturned, bifurcated tail sometimes compared to that of a serpent and large, angled head appendages that may refer to animal ears or even insect antennae.
Pendants in the form of figures with X-shaped bodies are an iconic Tolima type.
gold, cast and hammered
Overall: 29.4 x 16.2 x 1 cm (11 9/16 x 6 3/8 x 3/8 in.)
Severance and Greta Millikin Purchase Fund
In the serene landscape of Colombia's Tolima region, a hidden world of art breathes life into the land. Here, ancient stories find their voice through mesmerizing figures carved from stone, their forms whispering secrets of a bygone era. Among these vibrant creations stands a remarkable piece—a towering figure that captures the imagination, one of the largest of its kind.
As you gaze upon it, you can almost feel the weight of history. This pendant would have hung gracefully around the necks of prominent chiefs and revered elites, a testament to their status in a society rich in culture and tradition. Its abstract shape draws your eyes, beckoning you to explore further.
The figure is rooted in the human form, yet it transcends mere representation. Adorned with the essence of the animal kingdom, it boasts an upturned, bifurcated tail—echoes of a serpent dashing through the grasses. Large, angled appendages rise from its head, reminiscent of creature ears or the delicate touch of insect antennae reaching for the sky.
Through this artwork, the past speaks softly. It invites you to ponder the connection between humanity and the natural world—a harmony that has shaped lives for generations. In the quiet corners of Tolima, the tales of these figures linger, reminding us of the intricate tapestry woven by art, culture, and the whispers of time.
About the artist
Creating transformative experiences through art “for the benefit of all the people forever.”The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for the quality and breadth of its collection, which includes more than 66,500 artworks and spans 6,000 years of achievement in the arts. The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, USA 44106
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