Pre-Columbian, Argentina or Chile, Mapuche culture, ca. 1200 to 1700 CE. This is a hand-carved ceremonial scepter known as a clava made of a hefty stone. The profile of the clava is similar to a highly abstract and simplified head of a macaw or parrot. The thick handle slightly flattens to a broad paddle shaped finial that has a dramatically curved edge. The upper tip forms the bird's beak; incised with a linear, arrow-like motif, and the center bears a pair of low relief circular eyes. The surface is highly polished to achieve a pleasing smoothness. Mapuche shamans held scepters like this example by their handles to demonstrate their power and status. Size: 10" L x 5.5" W (25.4 cm x 14 cm); 11.5" H (29.2 cm) on included custom stand.

This piece has been searched against the Art Loss Register database and has been cleared. The Art Loss Register maintains the world's largest database of stolen art, collectibles, and antiques.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection, 1995 to 2010; ex-Bill Freeman collection, New Mexico, USA, 2004

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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.

#168313

Minor surface abrasions, but otherwise intact and excellent.