START WITH ART: Embossed Disk

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Title: Embossed Disk

Artist: Unknown artist from the Coclé culture

Date: ca. 700–1100

Medium: Gold

Dimensions: 10.2 x 10.2 cm

Start with Art Questions:

•  Look at the human face with the fanged mouth on the disk. How do the sharp teeth and fierce expression make the figure look like it’s transforming into a supernatural being?

• Notice the gold material and the small holes in the disk. How do you think the leaders attached this to their clothing, and why do you think gold was chosen to show power and status?

• Imagine you’re wearing this disk as a chief. How do you think the design of the face and the gold would make you feel powerful and connected to the supernatural world?