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Frog Pendant — Anonymous, 11th-16th century

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Written by: Nil GüneşResearcher · Old Master Paintings
African, Oceanic & Americas Art · Catalogue no. 10493
Anonymous, 11th-16th century

Frog Pendant

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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In general, frogs and toads symbolize life-giving water and the green growth it promotes. More surprising is their mythical role as keepers or donors of fire, an association perhaps enhanced by the bright colors that many frogs "flash" when startled, a form of protection. Brightly colored frogs, including those with golden tones, also produce very poisonous toxins, which in part led to a final connection with the underworld and death.

Artist / MakerAnonymous, 11th-16th century
Datec. 1000–1550
Culture / OriginPanama, Veraguas-Chiriquí style, 11th-16th century
Mediumcast gold
DimensionsOverall: 2 x 6.8 x 0.7 cm (13/16 x 2 11/16 x 1/4 in.)
DepartmentArt of the Americas
TypeMetalwork
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Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

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