Precolumbian Art - South America
South America includes Colombia, Venezuela, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina
In pre-Columbian Colombia, the principal archaeological cultural phases are Calima, Sinu, Chibcha, Quimbaya, San Agustin, Tairona, Cauca, Nariño, Muisca, Tumaco, and Inca.
In Pre-Columbian Ecuador, the principal archaeological cultural phases include Las Vegas, Valdivia, Machalilla, Cotocollao, Chorrera, Narrio, La Tolita, Guangala, Jamacoaque, Jambeli, Capuli, Bahia, Puruha, Cuasmal, Manteno, Huancavilca, Milagro – Quevedo, Atacames, Canari, and Inca.
In Pre-Columbian Peru, the principal archaeological cultural phases are Chavin, Huari/Wari, Paracas, Vicus, Recuay, Nazca, Salinar, Mochica/Moche, Tiahuanaco/Tiwanaku, Chimu, Ica, Chancay, and Inca.
In Pre-Columbian Bolivia, the principal archaeological cultural phases are Chiripa, Yaya-Mama, Tiahuanaco/Tiwanaku, Huari/Wari, Moxos, and Inca.
In pre-Columbian Argentina, the principal archaeological cultural phase is Condorhuasi-Alamito.
Within this expanse of South American history, visitors will find a fascinating display of Pre-Columbian artistry. The collection will feature pottery that showcases intricate designs and practical forms, stone artifacts carved with symbolic meanings and used for ceremonial or everyday purposes, metal implements, and wooden pieces that highlight the craftsmanship and resourcefulness of the ancient inhabitants. Additionally, textile works will be on display, revealing the complex weaving techniques and vibrant patterns that conveyed cultural identity and tradition. This rich array of artifacts aims to immerse viewers in the depth of South America’s cultural heritage, celebrating the artistry and enduring legacy of its ancient civilizations.
Fine Set of Moche Bronze Tumi
A fine set of large Moche Bronze Tumi. Each ceremonial knife is crowned with a figurine of a warrior wearing a combination of different battle-ready garments
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Moche Copper Axe “Ai Apaec”
This axe head is an extraordinarily decorated anthropomorphic blade. The artisans fashioned it from copper in the traditional Vicús style.
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Moche Bronze Lime Spoons c 100 BC – 300 AD
An ornate pair of lime spoons with Sandpiper finials. These small spoons removed lime from specialized receptacles (caleros, poporus) as part of the coca...
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Published Moche “Ai Apaec” Tumi
Atop of this copper tumi sits one of the most important deities in the Moche pantheon, the great god of creation - Ai Apaec. God of the sky and mountain...
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Published Moche “Erotic Scene” Tumi
This Moche copper tumi is finalized with a detailed couple in a symbolic erotic scene. One person is lying on top while the other rests on the bottom platform.
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Important Moche Phallic Copper Flutist
This unique and exceptionally rare artifact from the Moche culture of ancient Peru is a stand-alone hollow copper phallus measuring 2.5 inches in length.
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Moche Miniature Copper Skeleton Couple
A miniature pair of rare Moche copper skeleton figurines. These delicate hollow copper artworks reflect the sophistication of Moche metallurgy. Each skeletal...
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Moche Wood Scepter c. 400-800 AD.
This intricately carved Moche wood scepter, representing a high-ranking warrior, is a remarkable artifact of Mochica artistry, dating back to 400-800 AD
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Moche Pututu Trumpet Shell Horn
An important Moche Pututu Shell Waylla Kepa. The early Andeans used this marine shell (rare) trumpet to partake in ceremonial announcements, call to arms...
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Moche Druzy Crystal Tumi
This is an excellent Moche lord stone tumi with a suspension hole. Made from druzy quartz crystal, it has a deeply incised carving and a nice patina.
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Inca Dish with Bird Head Handle
Discover the exquisite beauty of this small Inca dish (Chua) featuring a sparrow’s head handle. This shallow vessel was prevalent in its era, favored by...
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Chancay Jaguar Textile Ornaments
A sizable pair of Textile Ornaments with painted Jaguars from the Chancay culture, Peru. Ca. 900 - 1400 AD. Colorful woven camelid and cotton textiles...
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