Description:

Pre-Columbian, Colombia, Tairona, ca. 1000 to 1550 CE. A precious, near miniature blackware owl effigy vessel, perhaps representing a transitioning shaman donning an owl mask, a long robe, and incised pectoral, with his human hands placed upon his chest and feet below. Size: 2.75" W x 3.25" H (7 cm x 8.3 cm)

The owl is a nocturnal bird that various Pre-Columbian cultures associated with earth, darkness, death, and the underworld. Given such deep symbolism, this transitioning owl-shaman vessel was most likely used in ritualistic ceremonies by the indigenous.

Provenance: Ex-Private Smith Collection, Atlanta, GA

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.

#119925

  • Condition: Expected surface wear with scuffs and encrustations commensurate with age. Overall very good.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

February 9, 2017 7:00 AM MST
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