Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 200 to 600 CE. A beautiful and rare container of a miniature size, hand-carved from white and orange spondylus shell. The cylindrical container has a thick rim and a very narrow opening that traces inwards to a similarly-narrow cavity, all on a flat base. The vessel is integrated with the back of a flat standing figure boasting a characteristically stylized form. Small inlaid copper beads comprise the eyes and ear ornaments, and their deep emerald-green patina nicely complements the vibrant citrine hues. The miniscule size of the container was perhaps used for storing poisonous substances or incredibly strong hallucinogenic drugs. Size: 0.8" W x 1.375" H (2 cm x 3.5 cm).

Provenance: private southern California, USA collection, acquired in the 1970s to mid-1980s

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#143047

  • Condition: Small nicks to front of figure, vessel, and base, with softening to some finer details, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits throughout, and nice green patina to copper elements.

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January 24, 2019 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
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$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000