Tierradentro Gold Mask Depicting a Human Head with S-shape Pattern Ornamentation On The Headdress
Tierradentro Gold Mask Depicting a Human Head with S-shape Pattern Ornamentation On The Headdress
Tierradentro Region, Colombia, Ca. 600- 1600 AD
(177,5 gram)
FJ.6271 Gold Mask
The gold work of Tierradentro displays iconography very similar to stone sculpture of San Agustin. It is, in fact, from the southern part of Colombia many masks were found. This wonderful mask is distinctive of the Tierradentro region, whose goldsmiths are famous for producing images that are very realistic and expressive. The ornamentation of the headdress is composed of a simple S-shape pattern; five in a series left to right, then in reverse for another five. This gives the effect of being a crown. The design on each side of the face also contains an elongated S, reaching above the eyebrows and curling around the corners of both eyes before ending in the middle of the cheeks. A series of four circles with holes and a triangle with three pinprick indentations completes the facial decoration. This may represent ritual scarification. The face itself appears to be that of a male, possibly a warrior or chief. A loop at the back shows the mask was worn; perhaps by the person it depicts, or a respected ancestor. With great skill a highly talented goldsmith has created an image of someone who lived centuries ago, brought to light again in all his glory.