This display consists of accurate reproductions of ancient, high-status pendants and pectorals produced by the artisans of the ancient Isthmian region cultures, who inhabited the area from Costa Rica down to northern Colombia. These ornaments were likely worn by the rulers and spiritual leaders of the Isthmian cultures, as the shiny, brilliant gold surfaces are known to have … [Read more...] about Reproductions of Isthmian Region Tumbaga Ornaments: Researched by Jenna Smith and Johanna Typaldos
The Native peoples of the Great Plains consist of a variety of cultures who adopted a similar lifestyle that enabled them to survive in this relatively harsh region. These peoples based their subsistence upon the great bison herds, depending on them for food, clothing, and shelter; following these herds required the Great Plains peoples to adopt a nomadic existence with few … [Read more...] about Regalia of the Great Plains Nations: Researched by Macaylah Gant Hodge
Native American beadwork varies greatly among different cultures, with individual nations often adopting specific designs, color schemes, beading techniques, and added elements. The Bone Bead Key Ring in this display, for example, is composed of glass seed beads, aluminum tinklers, short cylindrical plastic beads, and long bone beads, all strung on hemp cord; this particular … [Read more...] about Native American Beadwork: Researched by Jasmine Currey
The story behind the figures in this display unfortunately starts with the looting of ancient tombs, as looters have ravaged the ancient graves of the Chancay culture (1000-1460 CE). In their haste, the looters often ripped apart the delicate textiles that they were attempting to steal. In the 20th century, Peruvian Mestizo (mixed Spanish and indigenous ancestry) artisans … [Read more...] about Textiles of the Chancay Culture: Researched by Lindsay Werner