Pendant
Unknown Artist
Medium
Jadeite
Dimensions
H. 1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm); W. 1 1/16 in. (2.7 cm); D. 1 1/8 in. (2.8 cm)
Classification
Jade
Culture
Guatemala
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Heber R. Bishop, 1902
Accession Number
02.18.300
Art Historical Context
This delicate jadeite pendant, originating from ancient Guatemala, exemplifies the masterful craftsmanship of pre-Columbian Mesoamerican artisans. Measuring just 1⅝ inches high, 1¹⁄₁₆ inches wide, and 1⅛ inches deep, its compact form suggests it was worn as personal adornment, perhaps suspended from a cord around the neck. Crafted from jadeite—a vivid green, exceptionally hard stone prized more highly than gold in many indigenous cultures—the pendant's creation demanded immense skill, as carving this resilient material required specialized tools like abrasives and bow drills. In Guatemalan cu...