Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 100 to 800 CE. A stunning pair of scorpion ornaments made with a 38% gold content (equivalent to 9K+). Both are constructed from sheets hammered, cut, and repousse molded into the main body with the legs and pincers extended, while the stinger tail is made from a sheet rolled and separately attached to the posterior. The terminal end of the tail hidden under the body is pierced for suspension on both. These incredible scorpions where likely worn as intimidating and symbolic pendants or appliques on an elite member of society, and possibly served as burial goods. Size of each (both are relatively similar): 4" L x 2.75" W (10.2 cm x 7 cm); 3" H (7.6 cm) on included custom stand; gold quality: 38% (equivalent to 9K+); total weight: 33.9 grams.

For a similar example please see the Metropolitan Museum of Art's website, accession number: 1981.459.1.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, before 2010; ex-Virginia Art Museum; ex-Platt & Friedenberg collection; ex-Arte Primitivo, New York, New York, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#173470

  • Condition: Indentations and light surface wear, black and green patina and oxidation. Overall excellent condition and choice!

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August 11, 2022 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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