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In Precolumbian times this nose ornament was probably viewed as an abbreviated version of an animal mask, most likely feline. The graceful outward projections bring to mind feline whiskers. The long central section would have obscured the mouth of the wearer, hiding this "human" feature. An indigenous repair--a staplelike strap--occurs on one of the lower projections.
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Title: Nose Ornament
Date: 13th–16th century
Geography: Colombia
Culture: Sonso
Medium: Gold
Dimensions: H. 3 1/2 × W. 8 3/8 × D. 1/4 in. (8.9 × 21.3 × 0.6 cm)
Classification: Metal-Ornaments
Credit Line: Jan Mitchell and Sons Collection, Gift of Jan Mitchell, 1991
Accession Number: 1991.419.33
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