VERAGUAS GOLD AVIAN PENDANT CIRCA AD 800-1200

The avian pendants of the Isthmus region were cast to highlight the broad wingspan of the magnificent birds of the rainforest. Here the graceful curving wings contrast with the flat tail feathers, and the talons are deeply clenched as if about to land.

Hans Rudolf Koella (1925-2012), was a prominent Swiss collector of modern paintings who became fascinated with Pre-Columbian gold in the 1960's, acquiring many works from the Andre Emmerich Gallery. Mr. Koella created a private museum and research library featuring his collection of ceramics, textiles and gold, which he opened to the public.