Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Inca Empire, ca. 14th to 15th century CE. A collar necklace made from ancient shells and modern spherical beads as a wearable and reimagined piece of jewelry. The shells are cut to form an interesting intersecting cross shape that may symbolize a San Pedro cactus cross section or the chakana. The chakana also known as the Andean Cross, is a sacred but ambiguous symbol in Inca and other Andean cultures possibly representing, the southern cross constellation, realms of existence, the four arms symbolize the cardinal points, and / or the harmonious balance of nature. The tiny spherical beads are made in recent times from polished stones to match the mottled shells. Wearable with a sturdy sterling silver push pin clasp! Size of strand: 21.5" L x 1.5" W (54.6 cm x 3.8 cm); single shell panel: 1.25" L x 1.5" W (3.2 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: private Rochester, Michigan, USA collection; ex-Louis Redstone collection, Detroit, Michigan, Before 2002

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#182618

  • Condition: Large shell beads are ancient, spherical beads are modern. Strung in modern times with a modern silver clasp and wearable. Wear and chips to the peripheries of the shell, otherwise good condition with natural pitting and dark coloration.

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December 21, 2023 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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