Pre-Columbian, Central Peru, Chancay, ca. 1000 CE. Skillfully made from various textiles of woven camelid (llama or alpaca) and cotton threads, a charming doll that displays exceptional skill and various techniques; note that the digits of the reed limbs are meticulously defined and wound with threads, and the figure wears finely woven vestments (shawl, shirt, skirt, and headband) presenting traditional abstract geometric and zoomorphic/avian motifs. Size: 9.5" H (24.1 cm)
Scholars believe that such dolls were created to represent mortals rather than supernatural deities or spirits. Unfortunately most of the purportedly "ancient" Peruvian dolls on the market are in fact made in contemporary times, only comprised of collected ancient textile fragments. This example, however, is in fact an authentic ancient doll. A fabulous example that displays exceptional skill and various techniques, intriguing for its expressive visage, reed limbs with the digits meticulously defined and wound with threads, long curly brunette locks, and finely woven vestments.
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private Hans Juergen Westermann collection, Germany
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#139261
Condition
Minor areas of expected separation and fraying of fibers with minute tears here and there. Still, a very strong example with natural fibers in remarkably good condition given its age.