Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Moche Valley, Chimu, ca. 1000-1400CE. The Chimu were master metal artisans as is evident in the fine detail of these tupus or cloak pins used by the Chancay and the Chimu of Pre-Columbian Peru. Each tupu in this ensemble is impressive for its form and craftmanship. One assumes the form of an animal face perhaps that of a llama. Two are rounded in form possibly to represent the sun or the moon which the Chimu dutifully worshipped with an annual ritualistic celebration. 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. Another has a bell incorporated into the form. The final piece is semi-circular in shape similar to the traditional form of tumis, a ceremonial knife of the ancients that today is the national symbol of Peru thought to bring good luck. 7-1/2"L (animal visage) 7"L (bell) 5-1/4"L (round), 5"L (round), 4-1/4"L(semi-circular form) Provenance: Ex-Private New York 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: Nice condition with typical oxidation expected of ancient cloak pins. Bell no longer plays. Good condition.

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January 24, 2014 9:00 AM MST
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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