Pre-Columbian, Peru, Moche, ca. 400 to 800 CE. A Moche copper finial in the form of a jaguar head with a fierce visage extending from a long, hollow neck finely cast via the lost wax process. Note the remarkable level of detailing including that expressive visage with its incised wide-open, almond-shaped eyes, a protruding whiskered snout, an open mouth revealing sharp fangs, and those perky rounded ears that suggest the mighty jaguar's alert state. The textile remains on the backsides of the head, ears and neck, add to this, giving the appearance of a furry coat. The exceptional artistry and workmanship of this finial as well as its significant iconography suggests that it was most likely owned by an elite individual of importance, and may have served as an insignia of high military rank as the powerful jaguar was revered as the king of beasts and was oftentimes associated with warriors, leaders, and shamans. A very rare example graced with a rich green patina that has gracefully developed thoughout the many centuries of its existence. Custom, museum-quality stand. Size: finial itself measures 2.25" L x 2.5" W x 3.5" H (5.7 cm x 6.4 cm x 8.9 cm); 6.25" H (15.9 cm) on stand.

The jaguar symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world. Warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this king of beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World. 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 seen 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 LA County collection

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