Insect Bell Pendant
Record status
Individual type · partial
Period
400–1100
Insect Bell Pendant — Metalwork, made in Isthmian Region (Panama), Coclé, 5th century-12th century, dated 400–1100. Ring, ring! What do these four objects have in common? <br>They are all bells! <br> <br>The turtle with ruby eyes (1966.473) and small gold insect (2015.12) were likely inspired by imaginary creatures.
Fabergé (say: fab-er-zhay) probably modeled the turtle after <a href="https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/59362">small Japanese figurines called netsuke</a> (say: nets-kay). The insect with 14 legs may combine features of marine animals and bugs. <br> <br> The wooden figure (1975.190) was used in healing rituals. Notice the patterns on the body of the bell. Similar shapes are found on other Kongo-style carvings and textiles.
The bronze bell (1998.77.2) looks like a tall helmet topped by a pair of horns. It is decorated with a diamond that probably symbolized a southern Chinese tribe. <br> <br> Look closely at each bell’s shape and material. How might those details affect the sound it makes? Physical description: gold, cast; Overall: 2.2 x 1.1 cm (7/8 x 7/16 in.).
Evidence at a glance
- Linked sources
- 1
- Photograph views
- 1
- Catalogue references
- 0
Counts describe this entry’s documentation, not authenticity, rarity or completeness. Photographs may show one specimen; check each caption and licence.
Historical context
Held by Cleveland Museum of Art (object no. 2015.12). The museum record attributes this piece to an unrecorded maker in Isthmian Region (Panama), Coclé, 5th century-12th century around 400–1100. Details beyond the museum's own catalogue entry have not been independently verified.
Physical characteristics
- Dimensions
- Overall: 2.2 x 1.1 cm (7/8 x 7/16 in.)
- Materials techniques
- gold, cast
Identification
- Source note
- All details come from the object's own museum catalogue record; nothing has been copied from other entries.
- Museum object name
- Metalwork
- Museum object number
- 2015.12
Catalogue references
No catalogue numbers recorded. Numbers are only published once transcribed from a verified edition of a standard catalogue — they are never inferred.