Eagle-Shaped Pendant

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Eagle-Shaped Pendant

Place of OriginPanama, Chiriqui Province, Huaca

Date11th-16th century

DimensionsL: 3 1/2 in.

MediumCast gold.

ClassificationJewelry

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number

1948.57

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Label TextSmall golden pendants are among the most popular objects created in the ancient Panamanian and Caribbean region, from Costa Rica in the north to Central Colombia in the south. Most of them were created by using a casting technique. This pendant consists of a recognizably curved beak, large eyes, and extensively opened wings. These are clear attributes of an eagle called an aguilas. In addition to the natural attributes, it has a collar with four different layers of rectangular shapes that could indicate a beaded decoration. Veraguas people used many different types of avian, animals, and reptiles as their primary subjects in creating these golden pendants. Due to the lack of written sources, we do not know the exact symbolism of the eagle. It might represent social status or the characteristics of the person who wears this object. Gold symbolizes the sun and brightness, which is always associated with high-ranking social status and rulership. Birds connect the earth and the sky, traditionally considered mediators between the human and supernatural realms. This type of pendant was likely worn on the chest of a leader. Therefore, it could be used as an emblem of social rank and power in politics and religion.