Isthmian Region (Panama), Coclé, 5th century-12th century / 400–1100
Insect Bell Pendant
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Insect Bell Pendant as metalwork (Isthmian Region (Panama), Coclé, 5th century-12th century · 400–1100).
The practice of crafting gold objects in Panama dates back nearly 2,000 years.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this metalwork as gold, cast.
The museum's collection notes: Ring, ring! What do these four objects have in common? They are all bells! The turtle with ruby eyes (1966.473) and small gold insect (2015.12) were likely inspired by imaginary creatures. Fabergé (say: fab-er-zhay) probably modeled the turtle after small Japanese figurines called netsuke (say: nets-kay). The insect with 14 legs may combine features of marine animals and bugs. The wooden figure (1975.190) was used in healing rituals. Notice the patterns on the body of the bell. Similar shapes are found on other Kongo-style carvings and textiles. The bronze bell (1998.77.2) looks like a tall helmet topped by a pair of horns. It is decorated wi
FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE
The Cleveland Museum of ArtInsect Bell PendantOriginal explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.