**First Time At Auction**

Pre-Columbian, Peru (North Coast), Moche Culture, ca. 400 to 800 CE. An incredible copper disc that may have been worn as a pectoral, the three-dimensional head of a lord projecting from its face. A pair of holes through the upper edges may have enabled this ornament to be sewn to cloth or suspended from a cord like a massive pendant. The purpose of these massive discs is unclear, and it has been proposed they acted as banner medallions, or shield bosses, although maybe ritualistic shields rather than battle. Size: 10" Diameter (25.4 cm); 14" H (35.6 cm) on included custom stand.

We know that the Moche wore impressive garments and headdresses decorated with copper. The use of copper suggests that this belonged to a nobleman or woman; gold and silver were reserved for royalty. For the Moche, precious metal was not a currency used to exchange goods, but rather a material used to display power and perform religious rituals - often one and the same activity. Metals were associated with the supernatural realm, thought to be created by the gods.

Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010; ex-Eugene Lions Collection, Geneva, 1950 - 1980.

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#177493

Professionally repaired and restored. Infill with new material along 2 break lines radiating from rim to rim. Chips and nicks to peripheries. Surface abrasions and chips to layers. Intact without restoration. Green patina and mineral deposits as shown.