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.


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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Chancay Funerary Doll False Head

An outstanding Chancay funerary doll with a false head. It is finely made and unrivaled in size. It is composed of wrapped reeds, sticks, and vegetal fibers...

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Chancay Small False Mask

Uniquely sized Chancay false mummy mask. Carved from a solid piece of wood. The face is painted overall in red cinnabar or iron oxide. The facial features are

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Publicized Huari/Chancay False Head

A nicely carved Huari false mummy mask. Painted overall in red cinnabar or iron oxide. Facial features are in relief. Eyes are incised white with black...

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Impressive Black Chimú Aryballos

An impressive black Chimú aryballos. Attractive and well-defined. Each squarish quadrant has embossed stylistic birds incorporated on the upper half with...

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Royal Chimú Ear Ornaments

A choice pair of substantial silver plated Chimú ear ornaments. Anthropo-zoomorphic repousse decorations surround the center ring. The outer parameter...

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Inca Hunchback Urpus – Aryballo

A fine Inca hunchback urpus - aryballo. All black ceramic body. A complete human head over a wide-shouldered, hunchback individual. Sculpted low relief arms...

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