Bone Trumpet

Unknown

2nd–5th century · Condor bone · Musical Instruments

Prior to ceramic production, bone was used for small trumpets, flutes, and panpipes. This condor-bone trumpet was probably once covered with gold, allowing the incised surface to show through the gold sheet. Made in sections, this rare example was possibly modeled on larger gourd trumpets.

Artist

Unknown

Date

2nd–5th century

Medium

Condor bone

Culture

Calima, Malagana

Department

Musical Instruments

Credit line

Purchase, Frederick M. Lehman Bequest, 2004