Ear Ornament
Unknown Artist
14th–15th century or earlier
Medium
Gold
Dimensions
Length 2-1/4 in.
Classification
Metal-Ornaments
Culture
Mindanao
Department
Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of F. William L. Villareal, 1994
Accession Number
1994.191.6
Art Historical Context
This delicate gold ear ornament, crafted by an unknown artist from Mindanao in the Philippines, dates to the 14–15th century or earlier. Measuring a modest 2-1/4 inches in length, it belongs to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Department of Arts of Africa,, and the Americas, it was gifted by F. William L.areal in 1994. As a prime example of pre-colonial metalwork, it reflects the sophisticated craftsmanship of Mindanao's indigenous communities. In the vibrant cultures of Mindanao—home to groups like the Maranao anduindanao—gold ornaments held profound significance as symbols of wealth, status...