Description:

Chimu, Moche Valley, Peru; Moche; ca. 1000-1400CE. The Chimu were master metal artisans - evident in the fine detail of these silver tumis, two of which feature elegant spiraled silver. The Tumi is a ceremonial knife typically characterized by a semi-circular blade made from one piece of metal used by the Chimu and other Andean cultures. These tumis however are rounded in form possibly to represent the sun or the moon which the Chimu dutifully worshipped with an annual ritualistic celebration. Subsequent to the potato and maize harvest, the High Priest would sacrifice a llama using a tumi in order to give thanks for a plentiful harvest. The moon (Si) was particularly sacred to the Chimu of Pacasmayo, thought to be even more powerful than the sun, since it was visible both day and night, and also controlled climate and agricultural production. Children and animals were sacrificed the moon on accompanying offerings of colored cottons, fruit, and chichi. In addition, Tumi have traditionally been used to perform skull trepanations to treat psychological disorders. Tumis were also created to accompany the burials of elite members of society in Peru. Today the tumi has evolved into a national symbol of Peru hung to bring good luck. 10.25", 9.75", 8.75", 8.25", and 7" Provenance: Ex-Santa Monica Collection All items in this auction have been legally acquired, are legal to sell, and guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids, papered by our parent company, Artemis Gallery Ancient Art. The starting price is the lowest price at which the lot can sell.

  • Condition: Excellent condition.

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October 11, 2013 9:00 AM MDT
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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000