Tiwanaku Silver Tupu Pin Zoomorphic Finial

A refined and historically significant Pre-Columbian silver tupu from the Tiwanaku / Wari culture, dating approximately to 400 to 1100 AD. This elegant Andean shawl pin exemplifies the restrained sophistication and symbolic design language associated with highland Peru and Bolivia during the Middle Horizon period.

The piece features a long, tapering pin shaft culminating in a flat, circular finial. At the top of the disc are two outward-facing zoomorphic figures, rendered in symmetrical profile. These creatures, possibly stylized felines or abstract ungulates, display incised linear detailing along their bodies, evoking scale-like or textile-inspired patterning. The composition is balanced and deliberate, reflecting both artistic control and cultural meaning tied to status, identity, and adornment.

Unlike gold examples reserved for elite use, silver tupu pins such as this were also valued within Andean society and worn as functional yet symbolic garments fasteners. The form remains one of the most recognizable and enduring types within Pre-Columbian metalwork traditions, bridging utility and visual expression.

The surface presents a stable, aged patina consistent with antiquity, enhancing the sculptural qualities of the finial while preserving fine details. The pin remains structurally intact, with a smooth shaft and well-defined terminal figures. A small perforation above the stem is present, likely intended for suspension or additional ornamentation, a feature seen in comparable examples.

This piece stands as a strong example of Pre-Columbian silver adornment, offering collectors an accessible yet authentic representation of ancient Andean craftsmanship. Its clean form and iconic silhouette make it particularly suitable for display within both private collections and curated gallery settings.

Dimensions: 5.25″/13.33 cm

Condition: Excellent overall condition for its age, with minor surface wear and natural patination consistent with archaeological metal artifacts.

Provenance: Ex-private Florida collection, acquired prior to 1960s

Price: $1,850. – Domestic Delivery Included