Moche Gilded Copper Mace - Janiform Trophy Head

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, Loma Negra, ca. 100 BCE to 100 CE. A fine mold-formed copper mace head with a cylindrical socketing shaft surrounded by tiered rims along the top and bottom, and with a broad rim with a pair of projecting tabs on the top. The form of the mace head depicts a janiform trophy head, each side with petite eyes, prominent crested noses, semicircular ears, and lips which appear to be sewn shut, a style typically seen only on Moche textiles and ceramics. Ample traces of original gilding remain across the surfaces, and fine patina in hues of green, brown, and russet have formed along exposed areas where the gilding has been lost. Size: 2.75" W x 1.7" H (7 cm x 4.3 cm).

Provenance: ex-private Hans Juergen Westermann collection, Germany, collected from 1950s to 1960s

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#146290 Dimensions: Condition Report: Slight bending to overall form of top tabs and rims of socketing shaft, softening to some finer details, light encrustations within recessed areas and socketing shaft, with minor abrasions and chipping to original gilding. Light earthen deposits and nice traces of original gilding throughout, with great green, brown, and russet patina across exposed areas.