Description:

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Nazca and Inca cultures, ca. 180 BCE to 500 CE and ca. 1400 CE, respectively. A nice trio of ceramics from ancient Peru, including a miniature trophy head vessel modeled with a pointy nose, eyes and features painted in hues of black and white; a miniature coil-built terracotta vase with an elegant form comprised of a globular body and straight neck. Finally, a beautiful blackware bowl with a dimpled bottom created by the Inca. Sizes: Nazca trophy head measures 2" (5.1 cm) x 1-5/8" (4.1 cm); vase 2-5/8" (6.7 cm) x 1-7/8" (4.8 cm); bowl 4-7/8" (12.4 cm) x 2-1/2" (6.4 cm).

Perhaps the most unusual piece in this group is the mini trophy head. Mummified trophy heads date to the pre-ceramic period in ancient Peru. Perhaps the most extensive practice of headhunting occurred along the south coast of Peru in the Nazca and Inca valleys where the early Paracas and succeeding Nazca cultures resided. Head-taking was a significant component of their warfare and religious mythology. A warrior could increase his might and status by capturing prisoners for head-taking.

Provenance: Ex-private Crested Butte, CO collection, acquired in 1987. 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. #108670

  • Condition: Vase is intact and excellent. Trophy head shows wear and has chipped rim/edge. Bowl is repaired from two to three pieces.

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June 30, 2015 8:00 AM PDT
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