Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 100 to 700 CE. A beautiful and large, crescent-shaped nose ring comprised of expertly hand-hammered 18 karat gold and elegantly decorated with a central pair of spiral or concentric circle motifs in repousse. A stunning example in superb condition! 8.3 grams Size: 3.125" W x 2.125" H (7.9 cm x 5.4 cm)

The crescent form of these examples was a favorite of the Moche - various goldworks from headdresses to pectorals also had the crescent form, and they derive much of their impressiveness from the wide reflective surface they present to the viewer. Beyond the aesthetic, this shape may also connect to beliefs about the moon. We know that among the later Inca, Si, the moon goddess, was thought to be more powerful than the sun because she could be seen both at night and during the day. This object probably belonged to a male, because in ancient Peru, gold seems to have been reserved for elite men, while silver was reserved for elite women.

Provenance: private Hawaiian collection, ex-Splendors of the World Gallery

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#125079

Tiny fissure at outer edge of right concentric circle motif. Area of mineral deposits at lower center. Inventory number on verso. Generally excellent.