**Originally Listed At $500**

Pre-Columbian, Peru (North Coast), Moche Culture, ca. 100 to 700 CE. A simple yet refined bowl, hammered from a sheet of copper silver alloy to present a conical form with a narrow base and decoratively dimpled walls that span out to a broad, raised rim. This bowl replicates a form commonly seen in pottery for domestic use and was probably brought out for feasting or used exclusively by very elite members of society. Silver, mostly mined in northern Chile, had to make an arduous trade journey to reach Incan workshops, representing a significant cost. It was worth it to demonstrate wealth and power - imagine how beautiful this piece would look piled high with carefully prepared, rich food. Size: 4.6" Diameter x 2" H (11.7 cm x 5.1 cm); metal quality: 49 to 52% copper, 45.9 to 48.9% silver

Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010

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#178186

Small tear with repair near base, as well as some indentations and bending throughout, but overall form is still clear. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice patina.