The pre-Hispanic goldwork of Colombia is traditionally classified by archaeological zones, or regions, each with stylistic associations, varying in iconography and technology: Zenú (Sinú) and Tairona in northwestern Colombia; Muisca in the central highlands southeast of Bogotá; and in the southwest, Quimbaya, Calima, Tolima, and Nariño.

The pre-Hispanic goldwork of Colombia is traditionally classified by archaeological zones, or regions, each with stylistic associations, varying in iconography and technology: Zenú (Sinú) and Tairona in northwestern Colombia; Muisca in the central highlands southeast of Bogotá; and in the southwest, Quimbaya, Calima, Tolima, and Nariño. The richly varied works were primarily objects of personal adornment.

Coca chewing was and remains a common practice in the Andean regions for its suppression of hunger and fatigue. Andean populations would also activate the alkaloids of the coca leaf through the use of a lime stimulant. The lime powder could derive from either crushed shells or their byproduct, ground limestone.

This pendant bag presents a unique form of coca bag used by the Late Horizon (1400-1532 CE) or early Spanish Colonial period (1400-1550 CE). The top portion consists of a cotton bag brocaded with dyed camelid fibers; the bottom half is a purely decorative addition with similar surface brocade and long red tassels.

This pendant bag presents a unique form of coca bag used by the Late Horizon (1400-1532 CE) or early Spanish Colonial period (1400-1550 CE). The top portion consists of a cotton bag brocaded with dyed camelid fibers; the bottom half is a purely decorative addition with similar surface brocade and long red tassels.