Pre-Columbian, Colombia, Tairona culture, ca. 800 to 1200 CE. This is a large example of the unusual pectoral or pendant known as a batwing pectoral, carved from a striated stone. The name is derived from the highly abstract form that resembles the nocturnal creature. The center curves gently upward to a slightly protruding tab that is drilled completely through with suspension holes. The side of one face in this area has two small indentations where the artisan began to drill, but repositioned so the holes would not overhang the edge. The rest of the stone forms the outstretched wings of a bat, a highly abstract rendering of this zoomorphic form. The stone has creamy beige and blue-gray striations throughout. Size: 12.5" L x 2" W (31.8 cm x 5.1 cm)Bat-wing pendants served a symbolic purpose and have been found in the regions spanning from southern Mexico to Venezuela as well as on some islands in the Caribbean, often found in caches of other stone artifacts buried under floors of houses and temples. The ancients of the Americas traditionally associated bats that swooped and darted in the night sky with rain and fertility. Provenance: private J. Hart Collection, Houston, Texas, USA, acquired mid-1970s All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping. #167491