Pre-Columbian, South Coast Peru, Proto Nazca, ca. 500 to 300 BCE. A beautiful fringe consisting of tightly woven camelid (alpaca or llama wool) fibers in polychrome hues of crimson, marigold, chocolate, sage, and sapphire blue. The textile depicts 19 heads and 33 legs from munecas (Spanish for "dolls") with colorful forms that are all linked together via a uniform rectangular band - representing arms - that stretches across their chests. The legs each bear horizontal stripes across their knees, and each face exhibits an expressive visage. Noteworthy is the collective locks of hair that are sewn above each head that create a contiguous wig-like mane above each figure. The fringe is sewn against a modern fabric-lined display frame. Size (textile): 16.375" W x 4.625" H (41.6 cm x 11.7 cm); (frame): 22" W x 10" H (55.9 cm x 25.4 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private New York City, New York, USA collection; ex-Edward H. Merrin Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, 1970s to 1980s

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PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#166962

Doll figures are ancient and are sewn against a modern fabric backing. Light fraying and loosening to some interior and peripheral fibers, otherwise intact and excellent. Great preservation to fiber colors throughout.