**First Time At Auction**

Pre-Columbian, Mexico, Oaxaca, Mixtec and Tarascan culture, ca. 900 to 1500 CE. A collection of 18 bells and a tweezer, all cast from copper via the lost wax method. The tweezer is formed by bending a long and narrow piece of copper sheet in half, with rounded, clamshell pincers. The bells are elongated, teardrop shapes with an opening slit across the bottom for emitting tones. Several have zigzagging and spiraling geometric motifs applied to their bodies. Two of the bells retain their rattle balls and produce pleasing, tinkling sounds. All are enveloped in a heavy green and blue patina. Metallurgy was introduced into the region around 900 CE and many Mesoamerican cultures used metals for ornamentation, though their tools and weaponry remained of a Neolithic style. Many experts agree that Mixtec metal wares set the standard for Mesoamerican cultures. Size of largest bell: 2" L x 1.25" W (5.1 cm x 3.2 cm)

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

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#164253

Ancient cotton fibers attached to one. Only 2 retain rattle balls and emit sound. Heavy patina, mineral, and earthen deposits on all. Stable fissures and chips to several bells.