Description:

**First Time At Auction**

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Chimu, ca. 1100 to 1470 CE for largest; Inca Empire, ca. 1470 to 1532 CE for others. A group of three tumis - large copper axe blades with flared half-circle shapes on wide handles; the edges slightly sharp on all; however, these examples probably served votive, funerary, or ceremonial purposes. There is also a wide, trapezoidal copper applique with a hole drilled through its shortest side for attachment to clothing as well as a long, rectangular axe blade of a simple form with pleasing heft. Size of largest: 4.2" W x 8.3" H (10.7 cm x 21.1 cm).

We have archaeological evidence that the Paracas people used the tumi for the shamanic act of trepanation; this probably extended to other groups in the area. In modern Peru, a tumi on the wall is a symbol of good luck.

Provenance: Ex-Private Orange County, CA collection

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#120121

  • Condition: The large tumi is cracked at the center; the medium-sized tumi has a loss to one side. All the pieces have a dark green patina. Small loss to end of rectangular blade.

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February 27, 2017 9:00 AM MST
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