Lime Dipper with Figurine Handle

An acrobatic duo balances on top of a copper and gold-banded pin in this miniature masterpiece of the goldsmith's art. One acrobat stands on his hands with his back playfully arched for balance; the other much smaller acrobat lies below, supporting him. This unusual object was probably inserted through the folds of a garment to keep it closed. The scene may represent a courtly entertainment enjoyed by the elite of Calima culture in southwestern Colombia. The successful fusion of copper and gold was accomplished through a combination of lost-wax casting and soldering.