With incredible detail, this ancient gold jewel depicts a warrior with the wings and talons of a hawk. Though recognizably human, he seems to possess the predatory strength and swiftness of the bird. Crafted in the repousse technique, the applique shows both the front and back views of this fantastic creature. In ancient Peru, great warrior cults often chose powerful animals or birds as their guiding spirits. This was perhaps an insignia of office or a badge of rank for a great leader. Though small in scale, it glows with a power undimmed by the passage of time.