Pre-Columbian, Northern Peru, Chimu / Inca, ca. 800 to 1550 CE. A collection of over a hundred 63% silver beads, cast into spherical shapes via 2 hollow hemispheres soldered together. The beads are strung on a modern thread with a modern gold-plated push pin clasp as a wearable necklace! Silver working is a two-thousand-year-old tradition in Peru. To the ancients of Peru, precious metals indicated special status. Both silver and gold were symbols of power and prestige worn exclusively by the elite. They signified high social status and respected political authority during life as well as after death when placed as votive offerings in tombs with the honored deceased. Silver was used to create numerous types of objects, ranging from personal ornaments to effigy vessels - the shiny surface invoking the power of the moon and nocturnal forces. If strung loosely together, these silver beads would have tinkled, softly announcing the wearer's esteemed presence. Size of strand: 31.75" L (80.6 cm); beads: 0.2" Diameter (0.5 cm); silver quality: 63%; weight: 40.8 grams

Provenance: ex-Marc Amiguet Schmitt estate, Amiguet's Ancient Art, Evansville, Indiana, USA, acquired prior to January 1, 2010

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#174879

Several beads are split into halves along the equatorial seam. Pin hole perforations and tears. Dark patina and toning. Strung in modern times on a modern thread with a modern gold plated push pin clasp and wearable!