$35,000.00
Culture: Sicán Region: Peru, North Coast Date/Origin: Circa AD 900–1100 Type: Beaker Material: Gold (tumbaga alloy) Dimensions: 6 in. Description: Flared sheet gold beaker of the Sicán culture decorated in repoussé with a frieze of upright spears flanked by bands of stylized birds. The rim is encircled by prominent repoussé Spondylus shells, a powerful symbol associated with fertility, water, and elite exchange in Andean ritual culture. Vessels of this type were ceremonial drinking cups used in elite feasting and ritual contexts. A highly desirable example valued for its sculptural form and refined metalworking. Provenance: John Wise collection; acquired at Sotheby’s by the present owner’s family in 1971.
1 in stock
