A tunjo (from Muysccubun: chunso)[1] is a small anthropomorphic or zoomorphic figure elaborated by the Muisca as part of their art. Tunjos were made of gold or tumbaga; a gold-silver-copper alloy. The Muisca used their tunjos in various instances in their religion and the small votive offering figures have been found in various places on the Altiplano Cundiboyacense, Colombia. Tunjos were used as offer pieces, to communicate with the gods and when the Muisca asked for favours from their deities.[2] Muisca scholar Pedro Simón wrote about the tunjos of the Muisca.[2]
- ^ (in Spanish) chunso - Muysccubun Dictionary
- ^ a b (in Spanish) Tunjos on Arte en la red