Pre-Columbian gold pectoral with human face
Pre-Columbian gold pectoral with a human face, in sheet gold, hammered and embossed. Gold was an important element in ancient religious rituals, representing the emperor, the sun, and power. Pectorals were worn suspended from the neck to cover the chest. The gold was hammered to reflect the light of the sun and create a dazzling impression
Picture No
10556031
Media ID
46142220
Size
4692px x 3009px
(3.8MB)
Credit
Mary Evans / John Benton-Harris
Usage Restrictions
Editorial use only
Source
Photograph by John Benton-Harris
