Pre-Columbian, Northern Peru, Moche culture, ca. 300 to 500 CE. A striking burial mask handcrafted from a copper sheet- undergoing an annealing and hammering process until this distinctive face took shape. The somber visage has a square forehead that rounds out at the chin, set with enormous elliptical eyes surrounded by raised rims and brow lines that lead to the nose that protrudes dramatically at the front, a septum piercing is set through the nostrils, and the lips are impressed and slightly downturned at the corners. The additional "eyeball" panels were once attached within the slightly recessed sockets, but are now separate, and both have a circular indentation for inlaying gold or other precious stones as the iris. This funerary mask accompanied the deceased into the grave, creating an identity for the person long after the body decayed. The material of gilt copper indicates a respected or elite member of Moche society; his intimate life details a mystery, but his status is preserved as intended! Size: 7" L x 3" W x 7.75" H (17.8 cm x 7.6 cm x 19.7 cm)

Provenance: private California collection, USA, by descent; ex-Alfred E. Stendahl collection, Stendahl Gallery, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired prior to 1990

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#170897

Losses to peripheries and section of mask from brow to chin is loose and not attached. Could be repaired or displayed in a case to negate restoration. Perforation on cheek and indentation and perforation to nose. Separate eye panels are loose and not attached. Great patina and remains of gilt throughout.