Lot 281
Pre-Columbian, Peru, Moche, ca. 100 to 600 CE. A dramatic Moche copper tumi is surmounted by a sculptural finial depicting a high status warrior seated in a ceremonial litter, transforming the blade into both an instrument and a narrative object of power. Hammered from a single sheet of copper, the tumi features a broad, crescent shaped blade that flares outward from a long, tapering shaft. The surface is richly encrusted with green and dark brown patination, the result of centuries of burial and oxidation, lending the metal a textured, almost geological presence. The blade edge curves gently, emphasizing its iconic silhouette rather than functional sharpness. At the top, a figural finial presents a seated warrior or elite individual borne within a litter framed by vertical posts. The figure wears a prominent headdress and holds an attribute, possibly a staff or weapon, signaling authority and ritual importance. Size: 1.8" L x 3.3" W x 8.1" H (4.6 cm x 8.4 cm x 20.6 cm)
Such litter borne figures are well attested in Moche iconography, where they represent rulers, warriors, or sacrificial officiants elevated both physically and socially above attendants and captives.
Tumis were among the most symbolically charged objects in Moche material culture. While later Andean traditions associated them with surgical or sacrificial functions, in the Moche context they likely served as emblems of rank, ritual authority, and ceremonial performance. The combination of blade and figural finial suggests an object intended as much for display and procession as for any practical act.
Balancing abstraction and storytelling, this tumi embodies the Moche fascination with hierarchy, ritual, and the visual language of power. It stands as a compelling survivor of an ancient world where metal, image, and belief were fused into objects meant to command attention and meaning.
Provenance: private Dallas, Texas, USA collection, acquired in May 2023; ex-Compendium Auction House CFL Inc. / RBFine Arts, Florida, USA
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
Please note that buyers are responsible for understanding and complying with the import regulations of their destination country. While we carefully prepare and document all shipments, we cannot be held responsible for customs delays, clearance issues, additional duties or taxes, or any seizure of property. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.).
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#199089
- Condition: Front left pillar has been replaced with modern brass. Other pillars and one wall have been reattached with adhesive visible in areas. Weathering to surface with nicks and flaking in areas. Otherwise, very nice with liberal remaining detail and rich patina and encrustations.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $749 | $25 |
| $750 | $1,499 | $50 |
| $1,500 | $2,999 | $100 |
| $3,000 | $7,499 | $250 |
| $7,500 | $14,999 | $500 |
| $15,000 + | $1,000 |