This feline is an exceptional and sturdy serpentine stone mortar made in the Transition Style. The tail of the mortar has a beautiful spiral perforation. Wonderful green coloring. It was found in the Valdivia region of Ecuador and dates back to around 2000 B.C. – 300 B.C. It measures 9.25 inches in length, 5.5 inches in height, and 3 inches in width and is in near-choice condition.
During the Late Formative period, there was a growing interest and desire for green stones. They were considered exotic in most areas and were often exchanged over long distances since they were widely used in domestic and mortuary contexts. The popularity of green stones also grew significantly around the same time in Mesoamerica.
Provenance: Ex-NY collection
Price $10,800
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Machalilla Effigy Vessel
The Machalilla culture was an ancient civilization that thrived on the Ecuadorian coast from around 2000 BCE to 800 CE. They are known for their advanced pottery, distinctive ceramic styles, and maritime lifestyle. The Machalilla people engaged in fishing, shellfish gathering, and trade. Their settlements featured complex architecture, including ceremonial structures and residential buildings. Archaeological findings suggest social stratification within the society. The Machalilla culture significantly contributed to the pre-Columbian history of the Andean region, leaving behind valuable artifacts and insights into their way of life.
Betty Meggers, an influential American archaeologist, researched pre-Columbian cultures in South America, including the Machalilla culture in Ecuador. In her work, she highlighted the maritime aspects of the Machalilla, emphasizing their reliance on ocean resources. Meggers proposed that the Machalilla culture was part of a broader cultural complex known as the “Valdivia–Machalilla,” characterized by distinct pottery styles and coastal adaptations. Her contributions have shaped the understanding of ancient societies in the region, although perspectives on her theories have been subject to scholarly discussion and debate over time.
The pottery figures of the Machalilla culture were quite distinctive. They were known for their elaborate and intricate designs, often depicting human and animal forms. These figures displayed high craftsmanship, with attention to details such as facial features, clothing, and symbolic elements. The hollowed body figures were notable mainly for their three-dimensional forms.
The Machalilla pottery often featured fine incisions, painted decorations, and stylized representations, showcasing the artistic skills of the culture. These distinctive pottery pieces served practical purposes and had significant cultural and symbolic meanings, providing insights into the beliefs and practices of the Machalilla people.
The Machalilla culture likely played a role in influencing proceeding cultures in the region. Their pottery’s artistic techniques, styles, and symbolic elements formed a cultural transmission. Neighboring societies may have adopted, adapted, or incorporated aspects of Machalilla pottery into their artistic traditions as they interacted through trade, migration, or cultural exchange.
Additionally, the sophisticated craftsmanship and unique designs of Machalilla pottery could have set a standard or inspired later artisans, contributing to the development of regional artistic styles. The exchange of ideas through cultural interaction is a common phenomenon in the evolution of prehistoric societies, and the influence of Machalilla pottery likely had a lasting impact on the artistic expressions of subsequent cultures in the Andean region.
This magnificent rare specimen is one of the first hollow molded human forms made in the Americas. Rich tan burnished ceramic vessel effigy with corporal decoration. Machalilla region, Ecuador. 2000-1000 BC. Stands at 7 1/2″ tall. Restored from several pieces.
Provenance: Ex – Lands Beyond Gallery NYC.
A similar example is shown on pg.52 “Ecuador” The Secret Art of Pre-columbian Ecuador
Price $5,800
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Inca Hunchback Miniature Figurine
Highly deformed nude hunchback figurine in Bronze. His facial features are remarkable—expressive and detailed Capacocha offering. Hunchbacks were seen as an emissary between the Inca people and divinity and deposited as an offering.
The Inca civilization had an intriguing outlook on physical deformities, including hunchbacks, which were sometimes regarded as having spiritual significance. Despite valuing physical perfection, Inca society associated individuals with deformities with supernatural qualities or spiritual gifts. As a result, these individuals often held unique roles in religious ceremonies or rituals, with their participation varying depending on the circumstances—a scarce piece.
The Inca civilization utilized the lost wax casting method for crafting miniature figurines. They would create a wax model, encase it in clay, and then heat it to melt it, leaving a mold. Molten metal was poured into the mold to create the figurine. This intricate technique allowed for detailed and unique designs in their craftsmanship.
Ca. 1400 AD. Height is over 2″/5.08 cm. 5”/12.7 cm on a wood stand. The condition is excellent.
Provenance: Private Florida Collection
Price $1,495
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Incredible Wari False Head Mask
The Wari False Head is a fascinating artifact that offers a glimpse into the past. It is believed to have been created between 1000 and 1470 A.D. and is a testament to the advanced craftsmanship of the Wari people. The use of wood planks, incised bone teeth, and Purple Spondylus shells for the pupils make it a unique and rare piece that is highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike.
The avian motifs on the headband add a touch of elegance and beauty to the artifact. The intricate carvings showcase the Wari people’s expertise in art and design and reflect their reverence for nature. The fact that the Wari False Head is in its original form and excellent condition makes it a prized possession for any collector.
In conclusion, the Wari False Head is an exceptional art piece with great historical and cultural significance. With a height of 8 inches, its intricate design, rare materials, and excellent condition make it a valuable addition to any collection.
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
In Inca culture, jaguars symbolized strength and power, often depicted in various art forms, including the iconic Inca kero vessels. These jaguars were not merely animals but sacred beings associated with the Sun god, Inti, central to Inca religious beliefs. Inti, the supreme deity of the Inca pantheon, represented life, vitality, and the very essence of the universe. The Inca ruler, known as the “Son of the Sun,” claimed divine descent from Inti, emphasizing the deep connection between the ruler, the sun, and the empire’s prosperity. Integrating jaguar imagery with the sun god Inti in art and artifacts highlights the spiritual significance these symbols held in shaping the Inca’s cultural identity.
This remarkable Inca kero, believed to have been crafted from Escallonia wood in the 16th century, is a prime example of the artistry and spiritual symbolism of the Inca civilization. This vessel, standing at 7.5 inches (19.05 cm) with a 5.5-inch (13.97 cm) diameter opening, features the characteristic Inca shape, with slightly curved sides, a flat base, and a round rim.
Provenance: Private Canadian collection
Price $5,250
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases
Published Moche “Ai Apaec” Tumi
Measures 7.5″/19 cm. Custom stand will be made upon acquisition.
This piece is one of two being offered from a collection published in a large coffee table book called “Cobre del Antiguo Peru – The Copper of Ancient Peru,” which will be provided at purchase. Highly sought by specialists and collectors alike—pp. 370 and 371; plate 52/53/54.
Caption p. 518 “Moche, from the Loma Negra site. A copper ceremonial knife with a casting complex on the upper part represents an anthropo-zoomorphic figure with serpents that climb on his shoulders and reach his head like a headdress, and around his ankles and feet, the figure is soldered to the body of the knife that has also made by casting. 19 x 6.5 cm.”
Private Collection acquired in ’70s.; Ex Villacreses Collection, Ca
Price $9,550
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Regional Division of Pre-Columbian Americas’ Major Archaeological Cultural Phases