Description:

Pre-Columbian, Central Peru, Inca, ca. 1300 to 1500 CE. Conch shell trumpets were revered by the Inca as instruments of war since these shells can emit such grandiose, bellowing tones. For this reason, these instruments known as kepa, khueppa, or qhueppa were highly sought after by the Inca. The Inca would travel great distances by raft from Peru to the warmer waters of Panama to trade gold, silver, and other treasures for Strombus galleatus conch shells. This large example is still playable and has an original llama hide cord attached for suspension. Size: 8.7" L x 6.7" W x 6.7" H (22.1 cm x 17 cm x 17 cm)

Provenance: private Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection; ex-Kalina collection of musical instruments, Los Angeles, California, USA

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#144459

  • Condition: Rich patina on surface. Plays wonderfully!

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March 21, 2019 7:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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