Lip plugs made of tumbaga, with zoomorphic designs. Meant to be inserted in the lower lip and held in place with a “key”. Colombia, Tairona culture, 1000-1600 AD [1730×1500]
by MunakataSennin
Lip plugs made of tumbaga, with zoomorphic designs. Meant to be inserted in the lower lip and held in place with a “key”. Colombia, Tairona culture, 1000-1600 AD [1730×1500]
by MunakataSennin
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[Museum](https://search.mas.be/Details/collect/302279). Tairona lip plugs come in a variety of shapes and designs. This zoomorphic example is one of the most elaborate types. Cast in gold, it has a cylindrical base and a large mouth. The grin and rectangular head suggest a transitional creature with anthropomorphic features. The lip plugs were worn through an incision under the lower lip. The “key” to hold the plug in the lip appears to be missing.