pre-columbian art

Figure seated on a bench

One of the most impressive known examples of Colombian ceramic art is this seated male figure from the Popayán region of west-central Colombia.

The figure’s commanding pose, elaborate head-dress and shield, and gold necklace suggest an individual of wealth and power, probably a chief. His swollen calves reflect the use of ligatures (bands) tied below the knee and at the ankle, a practice in use by Amazonian peoples today.

The reptile clinging to the figure’s back—either a symbolic costume element or a spiritual companion—is similar to animal forms found behind the large stone figures at the archaeological site of San Agustín in western Colombia.

American Indian Art