Lot 129B
Pre-Columbian, South Coast of Peru, Inca, ca. 1438 to 1533 CE. A silver kero or drinking vessel comprised of hammered silver sheet, its form with a flared spout and two handsome visages created in repousse on opposite sides of the body. Yes, there are two rather than the usual one - each face presenting bold features above beaded necklaces. The ancients of Peru created these vessels for more than domestic purposes. Rather they were used during life by royalty and after life at funerary ceremonies that incorporated intricate religious libations and imbibing rites. An elegant royal Inca silver kero that would have belonged to a king or noble and/or would have been used at sacred funerary rites. Size: 7.125" H (18.1 cm)
To create this piece, the ancient metalsmith meticulously hammered a silver piece into a very thin sheet, approximately the size of the finished work. Then the artisan used fine-grained stone anvils and hammer stones made of hematite or green porphyry, sometimes with animal hide attached, and a wooden core template to create the form and its repousse ornamentation, as the metalsmith hammered the silver sheet upon the wooden template. Quite an effort, but definitely worth the time and energy!
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, ex Ron Messick collection, New Mexico, USA
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#136581
- Condition: Normal surface wear and tarnish commensurate with age. Label with old inventory number on base.
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| $200,000 + | $20,000 |