EXHIBITION OVERVIEW

A panoramic introduction of the roots and evolution of art in Colombia from the pre-Hispanic period to the modern era, “Columbian Gold Exhibition: Legendary Treasures of El Dorado,” consisted of some 550 pieces loaned by the Gold Museum of Bogota, which boasts the world’s largest gold work collection, and three other major art museums. Among the works exhibited were ceremonial articles, gold ornaments and implements used in daily life; ceramics and earthenware vessels excavated from ruins dating back two millennia; colonial era paintings from the 17th and 18th centuries; historic documents dating from Colombia’s independence from Spain in the 19th century; and paintings by figurative artist Fernando Botero and other modern artists. Another feature of the exhibition, which was made possible with the full support and cooperation of the Colombian government, was the showing of one of the largest uncut emeralds in the world (displayed under heavy protective security) in tribute to Colombia being a major supplier of the gemstone.