Lot 130A
Rare Moche Copper Fox Head Ornament for Elite Headdress
Rare Moche Copper Fox Head Ornament for Elite Headdress
Starting Bid: $5,000
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Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche Culture, ca. 100 to 800 CE. A rare and captivating ancient copper fox head, crafted from hammered sheets and formed into a hollow cylindrical shape to represent the snout and head. The open mouth reveals a curled copper tongue and serrated edges as teeth, while copper wires serve as whiskers- now aged and folded back into the form. The triangular upright ears are embellished with dangling copper discs, acting like spangles when in motion. Beneath the chin, hooks likely supported additional discs or decorative elements. The eyes are inlaid with white shell, accented with a contrasting darker pupil, giving the fox a vivid expression. The cylindrical neck opening exposes the interior construction and the articulated manner in which the tongue was mounted. Size: 7" L x 6.5" W x 5" H (17.8 cm x 16.5 cm x 12.7 cm); 9" H (22.9 cm) on included custom stand.
Such a striking piece was once affixed to the forward projection of an elite headdress, its fox imagery symbolizing warrior cunning and protective power. Comparable metal adornments were also placed as prestigious grave goods, ensuring status in the afterlife. A work of both charm and symbolic strength, embodying the artistry and beliefs of its time.
Provenance: Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection
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#196956
- Condition: Heavy mineral and earthen encrustations throughout as shown. Tears to the neck opening and small holes to this area. Left ear is probably reattached. Small hole on snout where a whisker is missing. Missing some dangling discs. Well preserved and a very rare example!
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| 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 |