Tunjo

A tunjo (from Muysccubun: chunso)[1] is a small anthropomorphic or zoomorphic figure elaborated by the Muisca as part of their art.

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.

[3] While the Aztec, the Maya and the Inca were famous for their grand architecture with temples, pyramids and cities, the Muisca lived in simple wooden and reed bohíos.

The Muisca made pectoral pieces, nose rings (narigueras), earrings, plates, poporos and other figures from the gold they traded with the surrounding indigenous groups, such as the Muzo, Panche, Guane, Pijao and others.

[4] Tunjos were small figures picturing people, the deities of the Muisca religion or animals.