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 sculptured 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 displayed, revealing the complex weaving techniques and vibrant patterns that convey 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.


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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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Huari Trapezoid Copper Mace Head

This Huari six-pointed copper mace head is supremely stout and has a unique isosceles trapezoid shape.

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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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Nazca Feather Plume with Orange Parrot Feathers | 100–700 AD

Ancient Nazca feather plume, Peru. ca. 100–700 AD. Bright orange parrot feathers, braided with fiber. Rare Pre-Columbian artifact.

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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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Tall Narino Decorated Amphora

A tall, pointed bottom amphora with faded negative resist black geometric decoration on a cream ground and painted red-brown geometric decorative highlights.

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Large Fine Nariño Vessel

A very large globular vessel from the Piartal cultural complex. Ca. 750 A.D .- 1250 A.D. Highland Nariño region. This rare, important olla is decorated with...

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Published La Tolita-Tumaco Ceramic Plaque

This La Tolita-Tumaco ceramic plaque is in the form of a fish or leaf, as described in the book. In either case, the form symbolizes the vital relationship...

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