Tunjos (Votive Offering Figurine)
Unknown Artist
c. 900–1550
Medium
cast gold
Dimensions
6.9 × 2.6 cm
Classification
Metalwork
Department
Art of the Americas
Museum
Cleveland Museum of Art
Credit
In memory of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Humphreys, gift of their daughter Helen
Accession Number
1947.19
About this artwork
Unlike the other gold ornaments in this gallery, tunjos were not worn; instead, they served as offerings that were deposited in sacred places, such as lagoons and caves. They often depict humans who hold something-here a container with a head (1947.22), a spear thrower (1947.19), and a bird-tipped (1957.25). The subject must have corresponded to a benefit being asked from the gods. Perhaps because they were not meant for display, tunjos were not finished after lost-wax casting. Flaws remain unco...