**First Time At Auction**

Peru, Chimu / Inca culture, Post Conquest to early Spanish Colonial Period, ca. 14th to 15th century CE. A high quality 89% to 96% silver tupu pin with a lengthy rod and openwork finial. The piece is shaped by hammering silver panels, coiling wires, and welding together. The tupu is the Andean version of a brooch or shawl pin that has been used for nearly a millennia, the style and material changing with colonization. The indigenous peoples acquired silver from the Spanish in the form of coins, spoons, and other items - these objects were then re-forged or melted down to make tupus. Size: 9" L x 1.25" W (22.9 cm x 3.2 cm); silver quality: 89% to 96%; weight: 11 grams

Provenance: private Santa Fe, New Mexico USA collection

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#176875

Minor surface flaking to finial and one spiral is slightly loose, otherwise intact and very good condition. Surface is lightly cleaned and polished. Dark patina and toning.