Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru (North Coast), Moche Culture, ca. 100 to 800 CE. A fascinating cast copper miniature figure, depicting a pod-like elongated ovoid, open at either side, with a human figure, presumably a high-status mummy, being carried inside of it. Two long, integral poles project from either side of the pod. This litter bearing the dead references an important aspect of ancient Peruvian cosmology. Spaniards, reaching Cusco early in the 1500s, were stunned to find that the Inca looked after their mummified dead nobility as if they were still alive, including giving them living attendants and bringing them out of their tombs for important social occasions. This copper miniature recreates the practice of veneration of the noble dead. Size: 5.95" W x 0.75" H (15.1 cm x 1.9 cm); 2.35" H (6 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex H. J. Westermann collection, Germany

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.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#132573

  • Condition: Pretty, dark turquoise patina on the surface, with light encrustation on surface.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

May 10, 2018 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 24.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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