Introduction Patagonia Andes Amazon Mesoamerica / Caribbean Southwest Plains / Plateau Woodlands California / Great Basin Northwest Coast Arctic / Subarctic Contemporary Art
Muisca ceramic head

Muisca ceramic head
AD 1200–1600
Colombia
Clay, paint
26 x 15 x 29 cm
Purchased from Julius Carlebach
23/920

Originally part of a figure that stood about three-and-a-half feet tall, this ornately crowned head represents a high-ranking individual, perhaps a warrior. Its features—the slit eyes and mouth and sharp nose—are characteristic of Muisca pottery figures from the central Colombian highlands. Musica chiefly society is also noted for its agricultural production and for trade within and beyond the high plains of Cundinamarca and Boyacá, as well as for its exquisite goldwork.

Back to Top