Pendant 9th-12th century

This gold pendant, likely crafted in the Venado Beach region, depicts a stylized crocodile, a creature that held cultural and spiritual significance for ancient Mesoamerican societies. The pendant’s detailed craftsmanship, with its sharp teeth and articulated limbs, suggests a high level of skill and artistry. The pendant's purpose is unknown, but it may have been used for adornment or in ritual practices. Dating back to the 9th-12th centuries, this artifact offers a glimpse into the artistic traditions of ancient Mesoamerica, and its presence at the Minneapolis Institute of Art showcases the museum's diverse collection.