Description:

Pre-Columbian, Colombia, Tairona culture, ca. 800 to 1200 CE. A delightfully whimsical gilt copper labret featuring a mythical creature with a serpent-like split tongue that folds back on itself and meets the sides of the head. The face of the creature has intricate filigree work, creating an eye, a curled snout, a crest made of tiny openwork circles, and a huge mouth full of leering teeth. A round boss with a cylindrical projection serves as a plug to fit into the lip but when not in use looks like the creature is wearing a top hat. Size: 1.4" W x 1" H (3.6 cm x 2.5 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private Poway, California, USA collection

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#133719

  • Condition: Dark patina on surface with small area of encrustation. Much of the gilt remains and the details of the piece are in good condition and very clear.

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June 21, 2018 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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$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 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000