Malagana Gold Ritual Ornament
2018 © Maxim Tabachnik
Zenú Gold Nose OrnamentsBird-Shaped Staff FinialMuisca Elite Funerary AdornmentsHuman-Face Pectoral OrnamentFemale Chieftain with OrnamentsMalagana Gold Ritual OrnamentMuisca Gold Offering FigureGold Pendant with Human FigureTairona Gold Bird PendantMuisca TunjosMuisca TunjosMuisca Ceremonial Scepters

Malagana Gold Ritual Ornament

276
This exquisite gold ornament (100 BC–300 AD) from the Malagana culture features a mythological jaguar-like face and hanging pendants. Likely worn by an elite figure, it conveyed supernatural power and transformation. The jaguar symbolized strength and shamanic journeys in Malagana cosmology. Crafted using repoussé , a technique of hammering metal from the reverse side, it reflects the rich cultural heritage of ancient Colombia.