Description:

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 200 to 500 CE. A lovely and large shell, turquoise, and wood earspool intended for an elite member of Moche society. The spool is comprised of a thick wooden disc with pieces of pink and orange Spondylus and nacre (mother of pearl) inlaid on the face in a radiating pattern from the central rondel as sun beams. At the center are five birds in profile inlaid with turquoise eyes surrounding a stone. Earspools such as this example, were commissioned by the wealthy and elite lords or kings who wanted to display their prestige. These earspools are replete with powerful symbolic value, for in the Pre-Columbian world, the birds as sky animals were regarded as messengers between humankind and the deities of the celestial realms. Size: 2.25" Diameter x 0.5" W (5.7 cm x 1.3 cm); 4.25" H (10.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private Hans Juergen Westermann collection, Germany, collected from 1950 to1960s

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#164515

  • Condition: Chips and nicks to shells. Mineral and earthen deposits. Nice coloration and iridescence on shells.

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June 17, 2021 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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