Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Inca, ca. 1200 CE - 1400 CE. Inca female Capacocha figurine of an elegant form, comprised of a rare blend of gold, silver, and copper. Such miniature figurines wrought in hammered metals were handed over as offerings to accompany human sacrifices during the ritual of capacocha, meaning royal sin or obligation. Upon the death of an Inca king, Capacocha took place. This ritual was used to incorporate new territory into the rapidly expanding Inca empire. Local lords selected unblemished children who represented the human ideal to Cusco. These children were then married and presented with miniature human and llama figurines made of gold, silver, copper, and shell. The human figurines hold their hands clasped to their chests - a gesture of reverence. Next, t he children and their figural offerings returned to their original communities. There they were ceremoniously honored before being sacrificed to the mountain gods. A fine example with this rich symbolic context. Remarkable detailing as well; note the meticulously delineated mane of hair down her back! Custom stand. 5.2 cm high

Provenance: Ex-Jean Michel Lyons private collection, Geneva, Switzerland

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  • Condition: Choice!

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October 24, 2014 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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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