Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Chimu, ca. 1100 to 1470 CE. A ceremonial cast copper tumi with a long tang surmounted by three pelican-like birds, perched with their long beaks extended slightly upward as if looking up at the viewer. The blade of the tumi is elongated and lunate. To the Chimu, birds signified prestige. Pelicans, in particular, were thought to have the ability to dive into the world of the ancestors, and were common decorations on Chimu artwork. Size: 4.55" W x 5.25" H (11.6 cm x 13.3 cm); 6.6" H (16.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Jean-Eugene Lions collection, Geneva, Switzerland

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#137501

  • Condition: Center bird is missing the tip of its beak. A deep green patina with light encrustations on the surface.

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March 7, 2019 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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