Zenú Crocodile Amulet
2018 © Maxim Tabachnik
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Zenú Crocodile Amulet

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This small gold figurine (500–1200) shows a stylized crocodile with a tapered body, short legs, and a central dorsal ridge. Such Zenú goldwork from Colombia’s Caribbean lowlands was worn as personal amulets. In Zenú belief, crocodiles linked water, fertility, and protection, so the piece signaled access to aquatic power and regenerative force.