Intricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Pre-Columbian Cast Bronze Figure
This Chimu cast bronze figure ornament, dating from approximately 900 to 1470 AD, stands at 4.25 inches tall and exhibits a rich, dark patina that enhances its depth and historical presence. The figure is depicted in a rigid, upright stance with both hands positioned near the chest, possibly in a gesture of reverence or ritual significance. His facial features are distinct, with large, almond-shaped eyes, a prominent nose, and a closed mouth that conveys a composed, solemn expression. Around his neck, he wears a detailed necklace, a common feature in Chimu metalwork that signifies status or ceremonial importance. His large, circular ear ornaments appear to have dangles that intersect with the necklace, further emphasizing his adorned appearance.
Atop his head, the figure wears an elaborate headdress or hat, possibly representing a ceremonial headpiece associated with high-status individuals or deities. The headdress features two prominent vertical extensions, which could symbolize authority, divine connection, or traditional Andean headgear.
The craftsmanship of the front side is intricate, with detailed facial and clothing elements, while the back is left flat and undecorated, a common trait in Chimu metalwork, possibly indicating that it was meant to be viewed from the front or affixed to another surface. The piece is extremely heavy for its size, suggesting it may not have been intended to be worn but rather displayed or used in a ritual setting. The rich, dark patina covering the surface speaks to the artifact’s age and the natural oxidation of the bronze over centuries, further emphasizing its authenticity and time-worn beauty.
Similar examples are housed in The Met. Object Number: 64.228.709 and 64.228.708
Chimu, Peru. ca. 900-1470 AD
Measures: 4.25″
Provenance: Ex-B. Donaldson Collection, Portland, ME. Acquired in the 1960s.
Price: $895. – Domestic Delivery Included
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Chancay Textile Fragment – Pre-Columbian Peruvian WeavingIntricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Pre-columbian Chancay Textile
Chancay, Peru. ca. 1000-1470 AD
Measures: The panel is 14″ x 7.5″; the Oakwood glass display is 18″ x 12″.
Provenance: J. Dunbar Collection, Canada. Acquired in the 1960s.
Price: $1285. – Domestic Delivery Included
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Stone Age Tools from Ecuador’s Andean HighlandsIntricate Details and Artistic Narrative of these
Stone Age Tools
This exceptional set of five Equatorial Stone Age tools was uncovered across the Sierra Andean region of Ecuador, known for its rich history of early human settlement. Dating from approximately 10,000 to 2,000 BC, these artifacts reflect the advanced craftsmanship and practical ingenuity of ancient Andean cultures, possibly linked to early societies like the Cotocollao (1500–500 BC), who inhabited this highland region.
The set includes three perforated stone tools, likely used as hafted axes or ceremonial implements, and three ground stone axes with sharp or chisel-like edges. The perforated pieces exhibit precise drilling techniques, with holes carefully bored from both sides, a hallmark of pre-Columbian stoneworking. The variety in size, weight, and form suggests a range of uses, from woodworking to ceremonial or symbolic purposes. The largest tool measures approximately 5 inches, with the others proportionally smaller.
These tools align closely with those illustrated by Edward Whymper in Travels Amongst the Great Andes of the Equator (1892), underscoring their historical significance and widespread usage during the Equatorial Stone Age. Found in excellent condition, each piece remains intact with minor wear consistent with age and use.
Cotocollao, Ecuador. ca. 1500–500 BC
Measures: Largest stone is approx. 5″; Wood glass display 9″ x 11″.
Provenance: Private Florida Collection; Dr. Solorzano Collection, Guayaquil, Ecuador.
Price: $2250. – Domestic Delivery Included
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Moche Copper Tumi with Zoomorphic Jaguar Wood HandleIntricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Moche Copper Tumi
This exceptionally rare Moche copper tumi retains its original, intact wooden handle, an extraordinary survival given the organic nature of wood and the artifact’s age. The handle is carved with a zoomorphic finial depicting the image of a jaguar, an animal central to Moche mythology and revered for its power, agility, and hunting prowess.
Likely crafted from chachacoma wood, the handle exhibits signs of degradation over time, including natural separation and surface wear. Subtle color variations suggest that it may have once been bound, a detail that enhances its historical interest. Despite these age-related effects, the handle remains largely intact—a remarkable feat for a piece dating back nearly 1,500 years.
The copper blade features a vivid green patina, reflecting centuries of exposure to the elements, with one side polished to reveal its original metallic luster. Tumis of this nature were often ceremonial, symbolizing prestige and possibly used in important rituals.
Measuring just under seven inches, this tumi stands out for its rare combination of symbolic artistry, functional design, and exceptional preservation. The intact wooden handle, zoomorphic jaguar finial, and beautifully aged copper patina make it a compelling addition to any collection of authentic pre-Columbian artifacts. – Exceptionally Rare.
Moche, Peru. ca. 200-700 AD
Measures: 7″; Wood glass display 9″ x 11″.
Provenance: Private Florida collection; P. Goodman, TX
Price: $1285. – Domestic Delivery Included
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Kawesqar Bone Harpoon Tip – Tierra del Fuego, PatagoniaIntricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Tierra del Fuego Harpoon Tip
This rare bone harpoon tip, measuring 6.75 inches in length, originates from Tierra del Fuego in Chilean Patagonia, home to the Kawesqar people, a maritime indigenous group known for their seal-hunting and seafaring traditions. Acquired in the 1960s by a world traveler, this piece was hand-carved and used for marine hunting, reflecting the ingenuity of a culture that thrived in the harsh coastal environments of the Brunswick Peninsula and the remote islands northwest of the Strait of Magellan.
The exact date of creation is unknown; however, based on its stylistic attributes and patina, it can be reasonably attributed to the 18th or 19th century. Crafted from whale or sea mammal bone, the harpoon exhibits a light, naturally aged patina, suggesting possible long-term exposure to the elements, which may indicate it was a surface find. Utilitarian tools like this were essential for survival, allowing the Kawesqar to hunt efficiently in the challenging waters of southern Patagonia. A fascinating anthropological artifact from a culture that now numbers fewer than 3,000 members, this harpoon offers a tangible connection to one of the last indigenous maritime hunter-gatherer societies of Patagonia.
Measures: 6.75″; Riker box included.
Provenance: Private Florida collection; R. Van Atta collection. Fort Worth, TX
Price: $785. – Domestic Delivery Included
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
A Fine Jamacoaque Sitting FigureIntricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Fine Jamacoaque Figure
This rare Jamacoaque ceramic figure from Ecuador, dating between 500 BC and 500 AD, is a remarkable example of the culture’s artistic craftsmanship. Standing 8 inches tall, it is depicted sitting on its buttocks, holding manioc tubers in both hands, an important crop in ancient Ecuadorian society, often associated with sustenance and ritual significance.
The figure wears a distinctive helmet adorned with a horn-like pointed object, possibly denoting status or ceremonial function. Its facial expression is highly animated, featuring arched eyebrows, deeply incised almond-shaped eyes, and an open mouth, suggesting speech or ritual chanting. A labret, or chin plug, is inserted below the lower lip, a sign of high status.
Adornments include large elongated ear ornaments and a necklace with a round pendant, enhancing its authoritative presence. A finely sculpted loincloth covers the lower body, while the hands, firmly grasping the manioc tubers, display carefully defined fingers that demonstrate the artisan’s skill.
Made from cream-colored terracotta, the figure’s burnished surface is smooth. Such figures were likely used in rituals or funerary contexts, representing revered individuals, ancestors, or spiritual beings within the Jamacoaque culture. Manabi region, Ecuador.
This piece is an excellent example of the Jamacoaque creativity and quality.
Provenance: Private Florida collection
Price: 1,250 – Domestic Delivery Included
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Intricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Aymara Marriage Bowl
A rare and finely crafted Aymara Tinka chicha drinking bowl from the Altiplano region of Bolivia, dating to the 16th–18th century. Produced from a single piece of wood, this ceremonial vessel has developed a rich, dark patina over centuries of use. The design features a pair of yoked animals centered in the middle, with side-carved handle straps, a motif that some associate with traditional wedding ceremonies. The term Tinka comes from Quechua and Aymara, referring to a ritual offering or act of reciprocity, reflecting the communal nature of these drinking vessels.
Tinka bowls like this were integral to Andean drinking rituals, where chicha, a fermented corn beer, was shared to honor Pachamama and strengthen social bonds. The presence of yoked animals suggests a symbolic connection to unity, labor, and agricultural prosperity, reflecting both indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial influence.
This vessel measures 15.5 inches (39.37 cm) in diameter and 4 inches (10.16 cm) in height. It remains in excellent condition, with the exception of a professionally restored Age crack in the larger section. This Tinka chicha bowl has an impressive provenance: it was originally held by Greg Manning Galleries in 1997. Later, the Metropolitan Museum of Art issued written instructions for Greg Manning Galleries to transfer the bowl to Howard Rose of Arte Prima. Howard Rose then sold the bowl to Banks Primitive Gallery in Maryland, which subsequently sold it to collector Ron Krannich. This artifact is a significant and documented piece of Andean heritage, making it ideal for collectors of ethnographic and pre-Columbian material culture.
Price: $1,450. – Domestic Delivery Included
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Huari Trapezoid Copper Mace HeadIntricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Huari Copper Mace Head
This six-pointed copper mace head is supremely stout and has a unique isosceles trapezoid shape. One end is larger than the other. It is heavy and adequately sized to produce a very damaging weapon. Excellent condition with a lovely patina. Measures 3.5″ in dia. 1.5″ thick. Highlands of Peru. Ca. 650-1050 AD.
Provenance: Ex P. Goodman collection. Houston, TX
Ref: The Copper of Ancient Peru., Plate 129
Note: Upon request, a custom metal stand can be produced with a 5-7 day production lead time. No cost.
Price: $875. – Domestic Delivery Included
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Rare Lambayeque (Sican) Copper OrnamentsIntricate Details and Artistic Narrative of these
Lambayeque Copper Ornaments
This exceptional set of Lambayeque (Sican) copper ornaments from ancient Peru (750–1375 CE) was fashioned for a ceremonial garment, showcasing the advanced metallurgical skills of this pre-Columbian civilization. Made from hammered copper sheet with precise perforation holes for attachment, the set includes a central half-moon-shaped backflap, segmented into three pieces. Surrounding this focal element are four distinct double zoomorphic repoussé motifs, each framing a humanoid figure, suggesting deep ritual significance. Eight additional rectangular and step-shaped plaques complete the arrangement, reinforcing the intricate composition of this rare assemblage.
Metallurgical analysis confirms the composition as 98.9% copper, 1.03% tin, and 0.07% zinc, highlighting the material sophistication of Sicán artisans. The entire set, arranged within a 12” x 16” x 3” (30.48 cm x 40.64 cm x 7.62 cm) black shadowbox glass display case, has been professionally restored (2005) and remains in very fine condition. Its completeness is extremely rare, making it a significant artifact of pre-Columbian Andean craftsmanship.
Price: $5,800. – Domestic Delivery Included
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases