Lot 93
Pre-Columbian, South Coast Peru, Nazca, ca. 100 to 600 CE. Three plumed fans comprised of feathers of brilliant hues of South American non-endangered birds most likely used as a component of highly prized ceremonial regalia that may have included clothing such as cloaks and tunics, headdresses, bands, tassels, and fans. Size: Each measures approximately 10-1/2"L.
The frames of the fans are composed of vegetal fibers provided with twisted cord into which feathers were inserted. Usually feathers of two colors are attached in this way. One of the examples here, for instance is comprised of feathers that are predominantly yellow and blue; another has feathers that are either orange and yellow or orange and white; however, the third fan is comprised of tri-color feathers in hues of brown, yellow, and orange. According to scholar Christine Dixon, "The brilliant feathers of South American birds, especially from parrots such as the Scarlet Macaw, were desired by most ancient Peruvian cultures. Their use for costumes and decorations, sometimes far from the birds habitats, points to the trade and exchange of feathers between the lowlands and forests and the highlands and coasts of Peru. According to detailed studies of the types of birds used, the objects were typically made from the feathers of birds found in the tropical zones at lower altitudes [of the Andes] in eastern Peru and the Amazon Basin. Of the 1800 native species, most were chosen for their colourful plumage or avian characteristics: the eagle was associated with power and strength, for instance. Birds frequented the sky and therefore represented the upper world or the heavens. Yellow plumage may have been so coveted because it stood for the sun, light, gold and the gods. (Source: Christine Dixon, "Lost Worlds of Peru: Nazca Culture," National Gallery of Australia) Provenance: Ex-private Crested Butte, CO collection, acquired in 1987. 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. #108675
- Condition: Intact with expected wear from age and use. Very minor losses.
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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 | $2,000 |
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| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |