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.


Inca Hunchback Miniature Figurine

Highly deformed nude hunchback figurine in Bronze. His facial features are remarkable-expressive and detailed Capacocha offering. Hunchbacks were seen as...

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Chimú Blackware Double Stirrup Vessel

This is a lovely Chimú black-ware mold-made double stirrup vessel with a bridge handle. The body has decorations and features a crescent headdress figure...

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Incredible Wari False Head Mask

The Wari False Head is a fascinating artifact that offers a glimpse into the past. It is believed to have been created from 1000 to 1470 A.D. and is a...

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Classic Jaguar Inca Kero

In Inca culture, jaguars symbolized strength and power, often depicted in various art forms, including the iconic Inca kero vessels. These jaguars were not...

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Late Inca/Spanish Colonial Silver Tupus

An elegant set of late Inca/Early Spanish Colonial Tupus. Each is handcrafted in silver. Hammered sheet metal, open scroll work with intricate floral/harvest...

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Tiwanaku Stone Idol c. 1050 A.D.

A fine Tiwanaku sandstone idol. The body is stout with deeply incised quadratic face and body features. Hands are held at the center and high.

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Tiwanaku Stone Celt with Pumas

An excellent formed Tiwanaku limestone celt. The axe head has a carved double-stylized pumas finial with perforated loop-type bodies.

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Nazca – Huari False Head Feather Mask

A very rare “Elites” false head bundle from the Nazca-Huari period. This remarkable and delicate mummy face mask head is comprised of Totoro...

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Quimbaya Champlevé Bowl

Superb example of meticulous Quimbaya workmanship in red ware pottery. Deep cut away in champlevé (chip-carving) technique on the outer surface.

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Quimbaya Female Retablo

A large and heavy solid unburnished buff slab figure from the Quimbaya culture, Caldas complex. Rarer seated female in the state of trance with extended forward

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Carchi Anthropomorphic Jar c. 800-1200 AD

A lovely anthropomorphic jar from El Angel, Carchi Province of Ecuador. Its double-body form is simple yet captivating. Thin wall, buff, semi-burnished surface.

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Nariño Human Effigy Clyster Tube

The representation of this Nariño Clyster Tube and nude male may be linked to agricultural field-fertility rites. Traditional sculpted face with bob-cut hair.

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