Metal objects appeared on the Isthmus of
Panama during the first five hundred years of the
Christian era. Inspired by the ancient artisans of
Colombia, the Panamanian craftsmen soon
developed their own distinctive styles. Gold
objects rapidly became the primary symbols of
authority in Isthmanian society. Important
members of society bedecked their bodies with
gold. They used it to bribe allies and to pay
ransoms for captured sons. Gold even
accompanied important people in death. The
chronicles of sixteenth century explorers
mention the funeral rites of ancient
Panamanians, all of whom were "covered in
gold." In life and in death then, gold was the
symbol of rank and prestige for the
Panamanians. The power and dynamism of their
goldwork can be seen in this spirited nugget of
worked gold. With arms outstretched and fists in
a gripping posture, the figure within this nugget
appears to be struggling for his freedom-a
release from the golden prison that surrounds
him. A tilted head combined with a grimacing
facial expression add to the figure's powerful
poignancy. We can only imagine the function of
this touching work of art, and will never know
the thoughts held deep within the artist who
created this dynamic piece. However, its
boldness of expression and effecting spirit
remains with us today, capturing our hearts and
our imaginations.
- (FJ.5032)
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