Pre-Columbian, Peru (North Coast), Moche Culture, ca. 100 to 700 CE. A gorgeous set of nine round rattles, made from a round, openwork sheet of molded copper folded in half to form a half-circle-shaped instrument. On either side is an anthropomorphic face with a wide head band; his body, with wing-like arms spread wide, forms the rest of the half-circle aside from the border of bells. Animals and plants surround him in the openwork sections - time has made them difficult to discern, but we can make some educated guesses as this is Ai Apec, the chief deity of the Moche (Mochica) culture. He is often surrounded by fish, cacti, and snakes. He bears the identifying marks of the god, with feline fangs extending from his fierce mouth, wide, staring eyes, and a large headdress. Ai Apec was associated with the protection of the food supply of the Moche people. Rattles bearing his face seem to have had shamanic, healing power in this ancient culture. Size: 4.55" W x 2.75" H (11.6 cm x 7 cm); 4.05" H (10.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection

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#133762

Incredible encrusted deep green patina - it almost sparkles! Bells are still functional.