Pre-Columbian, North Coast of Peru, Chimu, Late Intermediate Period, ca. 1100 to 1470 CE. An elegant ritual kero (drinking cup) formed from a single sheet of 74.9% gold (equivalent to 17K+). The minimalist vessel exhibits a planar base, slightly flared walls rising to a flat, flanged rim, and a deep basin interior. The kero vessel is a ceremonial vessel that was an important component of rituals in several Andean cultures. Although gold was not favored as currency by the Chimu, it was certainly a material treasured for its robust symbolism. The Chimu believed that gold itself was imbued with the essence of the sun, its light, and its heat, and was thereby a fantastic conductor of spiritual energy. The surfaces of this kero are incredibly lustrous and, in the right light, appear as though they are channeling the solar divinity itself! Size: 2.4" W x 2.9" H (6.1 cm x 7.4 cm); gold quality: 74.9% (equivalent to 17K+); silver quality: 23.7%; weight: 41 grams

The kero form was also created by Chimu and Inca cultures as well as other peoples of the ancient world. However, the indigenous of Peru created these for more than just domestic purposes. The ornate ones were used during life and for the afterlife at funerary ceremonies that incorporated intricate religious libations and imbibing rites. To create this piece, the ancient metalsmith hammered a piece of gold into a very thin sheet, approximately the size of the finished work. Then, the artisan used fine-grained stone anvils and hammer stones made of hematite or green porphyry, sometimes with animal hide attached, and a wooden template was used to create the form as the metalsmith hammered the gold sheet upon the wooden template. The Spaniards did not understand the ritualistic function of keros and believed the cups might contain secret messages of rebellion within their ornamental designs. The Spaniards sadly destroyed large quantities of keros during sixteenth century in an attempt to quell dissent. Nevertheless, beautiful examples, such as this stunning vessel, survived the massive purges.

Cf. The Saint Louis Art Museum, object number 268:1978

Provenance: private San Diego, California, USA collection, acquired on February 18, 2021; ex-Artemis Gallery; ex-Arte Primitivo, New York, New York; ex-private Maryland, USA collection, purchased from New York auction house between 1974 to 1975

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#172327

Normal indentations to body and peripheries, otherwise intact and choice. Warm patina with red hue particularly on interior. Old inventory label on base.