Pre-Columbian, northern Chile, Mapuche people, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A heavy, gorgeous tupu, made of (89%) silver, composed of an orb with a very thin repousse band around its center and a finial with a cross on a loop projecting from its top. A large, long pin for wearing fits neatly into the base of the orb. The tupu is an ancient Andean version of a brooch or shawl pin; they are still used today to fasten lliqlla, a shawl pinned at the front. The Mapuche acquired silver from Spanish colonists in the 18th century in the form of coins; they melted these down to make a variety of beautiful objects, notably ornaments for women that signified their wealth and status. Size: 1.45" W x 9.5" H (3.7 cm x 24.1 cm); 9.75" H (24.8 cm) on included custom stand; 93 grams

Provenance: ex-private English collection

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#153629

Excellent condition with light patina on surface.