Plaque of a bird. Chancay, Peru, 800 - 1000 A.D.

Plaque of a bird. Chancay, Peru, 800 - 1000 A.D.
Gold.
Provenance: Two birds - Annie Trotter, London, September 13, 1996. Romy Rey Collection, London.
Conservation: Good condition.
Measurements: 5,5 cm.

Small gold ornamental plaque representing a bird, made by hammering and cutting techniques characteristic of the pre-Columbian gold work of the Chancay culture. The piece presents a geometric stylization of the animal, with unfolded wings and incised details that suggest plumage and anatomical features.

Representations of birds were frequent in Andean art, associated with symbolic meanings related to the celestial world, fertility and the connection between spiritual planes.