Lot 24A
Pre-Columbian, Peru, North Coast, Chimu Culture, ca. 900 to 1470 CE. A striking group of six hammered copper appliques depicting standing lords, each shown holding a ritual kero (drinking cup) to the chest, symbolizing ceremonial offering and high status within Chimu society. Each figure is cut and incised from thin copper sheet with remarkable precision, their features defined through expressive faces, broad torsos, and elaborate headdresses with tiered or crescent motifs. Their short, stylized limbs and patterned garments recall the geometric textile designs characteristic of Chimu art, while their frontal, symmetrical stance conveys solemnity and authority. These appliques likely adorned ceremonial textiles, banners, or elite garments, functioning as markers of rank or as offerings in funerary contexts. The repetition of design suggests they were part of a coordinated ensemble, reflecting the Chimu emphasis on order, hierarchy, and ritual uniformity. Size (all about the same): 1.1" W x 2.3" H (2.8 cm x 5.8 cm); of stand: 10" W x 7.75" H (25.4 cm x 19.7 cm)
The kero, central to Andean libation ceremonies, was used for sharing chicha (maize beer) in acts of feasting and offering, linking the figures to rites of ancestral veneration and divine communication.
Copper held deep symbolic and aesthetic significance in Andean metallurgy. The Chimu, heirs to Moche metallurgical traditions, perfected techniques of repoussé and incising, creating objects that combined visual splendor with spiritual meaning. The metallic sheen and malleability of copper made it an ideal medium for sacred adornments, representing both earthly wealth and celestial brilliance.
Mounted together on a modern display backing, these six figures form a captivating tableau of pre-Hispanic artistry and belief. They embody the Chimu mastery of metalwork and the enduring connection between art, ritual, and power in the ancient Andes.
Provenance: private Dallas, Texas, USA collection, acquired in 2021; ex-Artemis Gallery, Louisville, Colorado, USA; ex-private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Eugene Lions collection, Geneve, Switzerland, collected 1960 to 2000
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.
#198854
- Condition: Slight indentations and bending of forms. Softening of details. Warm patina on all with heavier deposits on two. Otherwise, all are intact and excellent. Accompanied by custom display stand.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa
Shipping
Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping
Artemis Fine Arts
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 + | $500 |