Description:

Pre-Columbian, Ancient Peru, The Tumi is a ceremonial knife characterized by a semi-circular blade made of bronze, copper, a metal alloy, or wood. These examples are copper tumis that are particularly intriguing for their variations on the standard shape. Note the perforations on the fan-shaped tumi and the curled, tendril or tail-like motifs on the more curvilinear example. Tumis were used to sacrifice animals when giving thanks for a healthy harvest. They were also used to perform skull trepanations to relieve psychological disorders. In addition, tumis were buried with elite members of society as a sign of protection and honor. In contemporary times, the Tumi evolved into a national symbol and many Peruvians hang Tumis in their homes. Custom, museum-quality stands. 16-3/4"T, 14-3/4"T, and 13-3/4"T. PROVENANCE: Ex-Santa Monica, CA Collection. Authenticity guaranteed All items in this auction have been legally acquired, are legal to sell, and guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids, papered by our parent company, Artemis Gallery Ancient Art. The starting price is the lowest price at which the lot can sell.

  • Condition: Original, unrestored, the largest has minor erosion on the edges, near choice.

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October 11, 2013 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000