Pre-Columbian, north coast of Peru, Sican / Lambayeque culture, ca. 750 to 1370 CE. Eleven silver votives or appliques comprised of 98% silver, each one skillfully hammered and cut into the form of a swimming shark or fish. These special appliques were likely made to embellish a tunic or other textile and demonstrate the power and might of Sican rulers. Precious metals like silver were used by the ancients of the Americas to create vessels, headdresses, funerary masks, tumis, as well as body/clothing adornments like these for elite members of society. Size: longest fish measures 3.25" L (8.3 cm); ensemble measures 11.125" H (28.3 cm) x 12" W (30.5 cm) on included custom stand.

It is possible that these sea creatures were intended to be associated with Naymlap (also Naylamp, Nanlap, or Nylamp), the traditional founder of the Lambayeque dynasty, who was oftentimes depicted riding in a caballito de tortora (reed boat) and who came from the south by sea and colonized the region before he allegedly sprouted wings and flew off into the sunset in a dramatic display of his magical powers. Of course, as predatory animals, sharks also played a prominent role in demonstrating a ruler's might and fearsome nature.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-Gary Drimmer collection, Chicago, Illinois, USA before 2000

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#144588

Unable to weigh as these are attached to a custom stand. Each shows expected creases and minor bending with minute nicks to peripheries. Still remarkably well preserved.