A Pre-Columbian monkey figure
Colombia, Tairona Culture, AD 1000 – 1500; alt. cm 3; Delighful monkey figure made in tumbaga (gold and copper alloy) used as pendant. Depicted seated with forelegs resting on his chest and long tail curled up over the back; decorative spirals applied on hips, tail and knees. The head shows prominent eyes and open mouth, both decorated with interweaving and oblique engraved lines.
PROVENANCE:
English private collection; until 1985 in the Principality of Monaco; formerly in the collection of Gaspard Mollien (French diplomat, 1796-1872).

Estimate: GBP: 3.000-4.000