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.


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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Chimu Cast Bronze Figure Ornament

Rare 4.25” Chimu bronze figure ornament (900-1470 AD) with rich patina, elaborate headdress, and ritual hand gesture. A fine example of Andean metalwork.

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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 Loincloth Fragment

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

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Rare Lambayeque (Sican) Copper Ornaments

Extremely rare Lambayeque (Sican) copper ceremonial ornaments from ancient Peru, featuring zoomorphic repoussé motifs and a half-moon backflap.

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Fine Lambayeque Stirrup Vessel

A Lambayeque stirrup vessel modeled with the image of the deity Naymlap, legendary hero king. A thick denticulated headband forms the base of the upper part of

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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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Valdivian Owl Stone Plaque

This is a beautifully large-sized Valdivian limestone plaque. Bas-relief with deeply incised carvings. Calcium Carbonate incrustations throughout...

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Valdivian Monolith Six Sided Stone

The monolith limestone block in bas-relief is embellished with resounding, wide excised carvings on all six sides.

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Valdivian Ceremonial Stone Axe

A wonderfully sized ceremonial stone axe from the Valdivian culture, Ecuador. Green diorite stone with excellent delineation between colors. Highly polished.

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Valdivian Stone Axe c. 4400 – 1450 BC

Finely made Valdivian Ceremonial Stone Axe. Symmetric and highly polished dark green stone. Custom display stand. Measures 6.25" (16.87cm) tall.

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