Lot 150A

Rare Colima Conch Shell Pendant w/ Inlaid Jade Eyes

Previous image preload Next image preload

Rare Colima Conch Shell Pendant w/ Inlaid Jade Eyes

Estimate: $600 - $900

Starting Bid: $300

(0 Bids)

October 2, 2025 8:00 AM MDT (In Progress)
Live Auction
Louisville, CO, US


Description:

Pre-Columbian, West Mexico, Colima culture, ca. 300 BCE to 300 CE. A remarkable pendant, intricately carved from the spire of a conch shell into an abstract anthropomorphic figure. The natural curvature of the shell lends the figure a dynamic, serpentine elegance. The head is distinguished by a mouth, nose, and prominent inlaid jade eyes, enhancing both its visual impact and symbolic value. A small perforation through the side indicates it was likely worn as a pendant or used as a ritual ornament. In ancient Mesoamerica, conch shell was a prized material associated with fertility, water, and divine communication - suggesting this object held ceremonial or talismanic significance. The addition of jade, another highly valued material, further underscores the importance and prestige of this piece. Size: 6" L x 1" W (15.2 cm x 2.5 cm); 7" H (17.8 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: Collection of Y. Kayvan, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from a Los Angeles, California, USA gallery acquisition dates range from the late 1990s to 2005

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.

SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. 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.

#193946

  • Condition: Surface pitting and abrasions. Mineral deposits and discoloration. Jade eyes are intact.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 25% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000