Pre-Columbian, North Coast of Peru, Moche culture, ca. 6th to 7th century CE. A lovely nose ring of a crescent form that is shaped from a thin sheet of 92.1% to 93.3% silver. The broad ornament features projecting exterior corners, a pair of flared septum tabs with an ovoid central hole, and an outline of triangular peaks along the bottom and stippling on the top formed along the verso via repousse. Additionally formed with repousse techniques is the central image of Ai Apec (also Ai Apaec) - god of the Moche underworld - who presents in portrait with outstretched legs and a grimacing face as he brandishes a ceremonial tumi in his left hand and the hair of a severed trophy head in his right. The entire nose ring is enveloped with lustrous patina that glints in the light and creates a sumptuous presentation. Size: 3.78" W x 2.18" H (9.6 cm x 5.5 cm); silver quality: 92.1% to 93.3%; weight: 7.3 grams

Cf. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, accession numbers 1978.412.243 and 1979.206.1236.

Provenance: private Lumberton, Texas, USA collection, acquired before 2010

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#169569

Slight bending to overall form of body and septum tabs, with minor abrasions and softening to some repousse details, light tarnishing, and one petite black mark on verso made in modern times, otherwise intact and excellent. Great patina throughout.