Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Moche, ca. 300 to 600 CE. A large copper lance head adorned with a pair of miniature jaguars hugging opposite sides of the shaft. Clearly, the warrior or lord who possessed this elaborately decorated weapon was highly regarded. Size: 7-3/8"L x 3-1/4"W

The jaguar symbolized dominance and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with the jaguar, the largest and strongest feline of the ancient Americas. The principal Moche god wears a headdress adorned with a jaguar head and paws and important mortals donned similar headdresses. A nocturnal animal, the jaguar sleeps in caves and dark places and creeps quietly in the forest, evoking great mystery. Oddly enough, few Moche artists would have actually scene jaguars as they are not indigenous to the coast. Jaguars prefer moist forest conditions. However, scholars believe that some cubs were transported over the mountains for Moche rituals and it is also possible that some jaguars wandered down the coast. Provenance: Ex-private E. Duncan collection, Kansas 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. #109961

  • Condition: Tip broken, else excellent. Fabulous green patina!

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September 24, 2015 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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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