Moche Pututu Trumpet Shell Horn
Intricate Details and Artistic Narrative of this
Moche Trumpet Shell Horn
An important Pututu Shell Waylla Kepa. The early Andeans used this marine shell (rare) trumpet to partake in ceremonial announcements, call to arms, and communicate with supernatural forces. They emit a load-blasting sound that is said to linger on across time and space. The conical mouthpiece is uniquely made of silver. The addition and presence of this silver metal mouthpiece is essential. It strongly suggests a desire to enhance the instrument’s performance, as this allows for a better and more comfortable vibration of the lips. Metal mouthpieces are standardized in the Northern Peru region during the first half of the first millennium. Unfortunately, the few Strombus Waylla kepa that have survived have lost their metal mouthpieces, with some being restored. – Rare
Northern Peru, Ca. 1 – 800 A.D. Measures 6”/15.24 cm long. All Original, no restoration. It has an excellent, rich patina.
A similar example is available at the online Museo Largo Collection, Catalog no. ML200001
Provenance: Ex – E. Lehr, Normal, IL
Price – $1,445
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases