Earring 11th-16th century

This exquisite earring was crafted by the Tairona people, an indigenous group who lived in present-day Colombia prior to European contact. The earring, likely worn by a person of high status, reflects the cultural and spiritual values of Tairona society. The use of gold, a highly valued material, signifies power, wealth, and a connection to the divine. Its circular shape might symbolize the sun, a central figure in many indigenous cosmologies. As you observe the earring, consider the complex history of colonialism and cultural exchange that has shaped our understanding of indigenous art. How does seeing this object, divorced from its original cultural context, affect your perception of it? What stories do you imagine it could tell about the lives of the people who created and wore it? The earring serves as a potent reminder of the rich cultural heritage that existed long before European contact, urging us to reflect on issues of cultural identity, representation, and the enduring legacy of colonialism.