**Originally Listed At $150**

Pre-Columbian, Central Peru, Chancay, ca. 1000 CE. Skillfully made from various textiles of woven camelid (llama or alpaca) and cotton threads, a charming doll that displays exceptional skill and various techniques; note that the digits of the reed limbs are meticulously defined and wound with threads, and the figure wears finely woven vestments (tunic, skirt, and headband) presenting traditional designs including abstract step patterns as well as avian motifs. Some added touches include a tasseled sash and a loop attached to the back of her head for display. Size: 10.5" H (26.7 cm)

Scholars believe that such dolls were created to represent mortals rather than supernatural deities or spirits. Unfortunately most of the purportedly "ancient" Peruvian dolls on the market are in fact made in contemporary times are only comprised of collected ancient textile fragments. This example, however, is in fact an authentic ancient doll. A fabulous example that displays exceptional skill and various techniques, intriguing for its expressive visage, reed limbs with the digits meticulously defined and wound with threads, long brunette locks, and finely woven vestments.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private H. J. Westermann collection, Germany, acquired 1955 - 1965

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

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.

#139240

Some expected separation, fraying, and loss to fibers here and there that are commensurate with age; however, the doll is in generally very good condition.