Mochicha Portrait w/ Spondylus, Lapis & Turquoise

**Originally Listed At $1600**

Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, Moche, ca. 100 to 300 CE. A miniature stone portrait of an elite male presenting a frontal visage with almond-shaped eyes containing spondylus shell inlays with lapis lazuli pupils, a bas relief nose, slightly downturned lips flanked by jowel marks to connote his serious nature, a headband in relief over his forehead and tied around his coiffure with ends trailing behind (these are incised), and a petal-like collar with turquoise inlays. Bilaterally perforated on verso for suspension or attachment. More than likely, this was a portrait of an important member of Moche society, as the Moche had a very strong portraiture tradition, particularly evident in portrait vessels that sometimes portray the same individual at different stages of life! Size: 1.125" H (2.9 cm); 2.875" H (7.3 cm) on included custom stand.

This piece is made of materials that carried significant meaning to the indigenous of Peru. Spondylus shells, also known as spiny or thorny oysters for obvious reasons, have been revered by Andean peoples since the Pre-Columbian era. In addition to being featured in their artwork and used as currency, Spondylus pieces served as sacred offerings to Pachamama, the earth/time mother, a version of Mother Nature. Lapis lazuli and turquoise were also coveted materials, ideal for embellishing an elite individual's possessions and fostering his/her passage to the afterlife.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private Silvana collection, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, 1998

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#143742
Condition Report: The piece is intact with intact inlays. Normal surface wear commensurate with age. Earthen and mineral deposits as well.