**Originally Listed At $700**

Pre-Columbian, Peru, Moche, ca. 100 to 600 CE. A hammered copper tumi depicting an animal with openwork eyes and mouth, a saurian of sorts with lizard-like features. Although the edges of the blade are slightly sharpened, this object almost certainly served a ceremonial or votive function given its animal effigy form, and was not used as a weapon or tool. Tumis were sometimes used to sacrifice llamas to the Sun. The Paracas people, also from the Andes, used the tumi for trepanation; although little studied, it is possible that the Moche conducted a similar practice. In modern Peru, a tumi on the wall is a symbol of good luck. Size: 6.25" W x 3.375" H (15.9 cm x 8.6 cm); 4.75" H (12.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex- H. J. Westermann Collection, Germany

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.

#132579

Amazing bright green and russet patina that has developed over the ages.