Lot 235E
Pre-Columbian, central Peru, Inca, ca. 13th to 16th century CE. A pair of elongated diamond-shaped armbands made from hammered silver, each one with intricately delineated designs, the upper example featuring two birds facing and perhaps flying towards one another, the lower one adorned with a pair of similarly symmetrically arranged fish. The surrounding fields present attractive stylized geometric motifs and dotted patterns. Together this pair represents the sky and the sea - symbolizing the celestial realm and the watery underworld of the Pre-Columbian era. Custom stand. Size: larger measures 6.5" W x 2.5" H (16.5 cm x 6.4 cm); 6.875" W x 6.875" H (17.5 cm x 17.5 cm) on stand
In the Pre-Columbian world, birds were regarded as sky animals associated with the sun, moon, and Venus - where they served as messengers between humankind and the deities. Of particular importance were the eagle, parrot, and hummingbird. The beaks of the birds depicted on this example are closest to those of a parrot. Parrots were and continue to be revered by the ancients of South America. Their brilliant plumage and ability to fly high above the treeline made them ideal incarnations of the sky deities, thought to be endowed with supernatural powers of celestial origin. Marine life, including fish and shells, symbolized the subterranean watery sea environs of the underworld as well as the regenerative forces in this zone of death and rebirth.
Provenance: private R.D. collection, Long Beach, California, USA collection, acquired over 25 years from various major galleries.
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#124304
- Condition: Upper one with small loss to lower right edge. Lower one with a small tear at the lower edge (center). Both with expected oxidation and areas of green patina.
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