Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Mixtec culture, ca. 1200 to 1500 CE. A remarkable collection of 4 silver bells, each in the form of a zoomorphic head resembling a canine. Each featuring a projecting ring on their verso for suspension, all 4 bells display extending, tapered snouts, annular, openwork nostrils, bulging, target-motif eyes, and lengthy mouths held open. A pair of sizeable, pointed ears caps the head of each zoomorphic instrument, as an applied wire forms a spiraling motif on the interior of each ear. The heads are filled with petite clappers, allowing them to produce a lovely sound when shaken! Size (all about the same): 1.8" L x 1.3" W x 1.3" H (4.6 cm x 3.3 cm x 3.3 cm); silver quality: 87.1% to 96.5%; total weight: 51.4 grams

The Mixtec artisans were masters of metallurgy, surpassing other Mesoamerican cultures in craftsmanship. Metallurgy was introduced into the region around 900 CE. Mesoamericans used metals for ornamentation, though their tools and weaponry remained Neolithic. Many experts agree that Mixtec metal wares set the standard for Mesoamerican cultures. The Oaxaca master silversmiths also used copper and gold to make pendants, masks, beads, buckles, rings, and bells such as these employing hammering and lost wax process techniques.

Provenance: private Fayetteville, Arkansas, USA collection; ex-Dr. David Harner collection, Springdale, Arkansas, USA, acquired between the 1950s and 1960s

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#168839

All still function. Some expected light abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, all are intact and excellent with lovely remaining details and nice green patina.