Lot 15
  • 15

Large Coclé Gold Frog Pendant ca. A.D. 800-1200

Estimate
50,000 - 70,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

  • gold
  • Length: 4 1/2 in (10.7 cm)
crouching on splayed feet, and with large stylized alligator heads curling from the mouth, the front feet forming suspension loops.

Provenance

John Wise
Acquired from the above by the present owner's family in 1973

Condition

Excellent condition overall; great color, casting details and weight.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

Anuran gold pendants may represent either the tree frog (who range from 1 inch to over 5 inches), or terrestrial poisonous and hallucinogenic toads whose toxins were utilized in hunting and shaman ceremonies. The elaborate sprays and spirals emanating from their mouth represent ephemeral bubbles or general water symbols; frequently these are combined with stylized saurian heads. Here the opposed profile heads are trimmed by a classic Coclé-style triangular motif cross the top.

These 'flange-footed' frogs, often with stylized emanations from the mouth are found in various parts of the Isthmus region including the Veraguas-Gran Chiriquí region of Costa Rica. for similar frogs and style elements, see Graham in Quilter and Hoopes (2003:282-283, figs. 4-6); Lothrop (1950:65, Fig. 98 d); and Marzio (2011:157) the latter a frog in the Alfred C. Glassell Jr. Collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.