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.


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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Nazca Polychrome Cactus Star Bowl

A colorful Nazca bowl dating from approximately AD 500-600 showcases a distinctive red, orange, brown, and tan star design with a central dot...

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Chimú Wooden Ceremonial Figure

This sizable and intricate sculpture depicts a Chiefton in ceremonial practice. It is an impressive standalone wood carving. He wears a tethered headdress.

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Chancay Cradleboard Litter

A finely made Chancay Cradleboard litter - kupulwe. Laid upon a bed of reed slats, a solid clay figure is nicely wrapped using a cotton textile blanket, secured

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Chancay Border Panel Fragment

Cotton and wool (camelid), bands of plain weave, slit tapestry weave with wrapping outlining waves, and edged with plain weave extended weft loop fringe...

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Fine Lambayeque Stirrup Vessel

Modeled image of the deity Naymlap, legendary hero king. A thick denticulated headband forms the base of the upper part of the spout. Three-tier tasseled...

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Chancay Wood Staff with Janiform Heads

This robust carved hardwood pole staff has a double human head finial. Diamond-shaped eyes with heavy cheeks. Wears a large, tall plume.

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