Gold has long been linked to the spiritual realm. The Inca associated gold with Inti, their sun god. The Mexica (Aztec) word for gold was teocuitlatl, or “excrement of the gods.” The ancient peoples of present-day Costa Rica and Panama believed gold mining was a sacred pursuit. The ancient Egyptians believed their gods had skin made of gold. Buddhist sculptures are often gilded to recall the “golden glow” of Siddhartha Gautama himself.
So of course, we had to bring our art-meets-astrology obsession to Solid Gold. Open through July 6, 2025, the exhibition explores and celebrates this color and material—and the ways that it has connected us to higher powers.
Coclé artist, Plaque with Crocodile Deity
It’s your season, Aries! You are a born leader, never afraid to go forth with boundless energy and optimism. Many of the bold works in Solid Gold will speak to you, but this one might win out.
For the ancient Coclé people of present-day Panama, embossed gold plaques were symbols of power and status. Sixteenth-century Spanish explorers described how Indigenous leaders wore plaques on their chests when going into battle. By depicting mythical beings, they enhanced the wearer’s power and connected them to the supernatural world. This plaque features the Crocodile Deity, who is associated with strength—just like you.
El Anatsui, Black Block
Artist El Anatsui created Black Block using humble materials: aluminum from discarded bottle caps and wire. As a Taurus, you are down-to-earth and practical; you’re able to appreciate the intention of giving these materials new life. As a strong-willed statement-maker yourself, you’ll be taken with the scale of this sculpture. (True to Anatsui’s style, it’s larger than life; he’s made works large enough to cover buildings!) You also tend to gravitate toward tactility and will be blown away by the drape’s twists and turns.
This piece is a “non-fixed form,” meaning it has no set orientation. Black Block is hung differently each time it’s installed. It’s dynamic and full of little surprises, which might be a healthy challenge for the steadfast Taurus.
Ears of Wheat
Stand tall, Gemini! These Ears of Wheat are so you. For starters, there are two (twin!) ears. Wheat, as a plant, is also incredibly versatile—just like the adaptable Gemini.
Wheat is often a symbol of fertility and abundance; Geminis often move through the world with an abundance mindset. You’re social and imaginative, always open to other opinions. Geminis have a tendency to approach the world with curiosity and awe, so this celebration of the humble yet invaluable wheat might resonate with you. You’re also a social creature, and wheat is a staple of socializing—there’s a reason that “breaking bread” is associated with social gatherings. Plus, wheat sprouts up in a flash, echoing your own fast-paced energy.
From the top: Wreath, reportedly Corinth, Greece, 3rd–2nd century B.C.E. Gold. Brooklyn Museum, Gift of George D. Pratt, 26.763. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum); Coclé artist. Plaque with a Crocodile Deity, ca. 900–1000. Gold. Brooklyn Museum, Museum Expedition 1931, Museum Collection Fund, 33.448.12. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum); El Anatsui. Black Block, 2010. Aluminum and copper wire. Brooklyn Museum, Bequest of William K. Jacobs, Jr., by exchange, 2013.7a-b. © El Anatsui. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum); Ears of Wheat, Northern Greece, 350–300 B.C.E. Gold. Brooklyn Museum, purchased with funds given by Mr. and Mrs. Carl L. Selden and Mrs. Frank K. Sanders, 67.13.1-.2. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
