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THBEcuadoran La Tolita Gold Applique Jaguar Head Profile
About Seller
686 S Taylor Ave, Ste 106
Louisville, CO 80027
United States
Selling antiquities, ancient and ethnographic art online since 1993, Artemis Gallery specializes in Classical Antiquities (Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Near Eastern), Asian, Pre-Columbian, African / Tribal / Oceanographic art. Our extensive inventory includes pottery, stone, metal, wood, glass and textil...Read more
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About Auction
LiveNov 16, 2023
Museum-worthy examples of classical antiquities (Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Near Eastern), Viking, Far East / Asian, Pre-Columbian, African / Tribal, Oceanic, Native American, Spanish Colonial, Nautical, Fossils, Ancient Jewelry, Fine / Visual Arts, so much more! Artemis Gallery info@artemisgallery.com
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- Lot Description
Pre-Columbian, Colombia, La Tolita (Tumaco) culture, ca. 500 to 300 BCE. A rare jaguar head applique shaped in repousse from a large sheet as well as several smaller sheets of 94.5% gold (equivalent to 22K+). The abstract, right-facing feline presents with a single bulging eye beneath layered brows, a muzzle lined with stippling and presenting sizable fangs, and an upturned nose as if angered. One large ear protrudes up from the verso while a series of ovoid appliques representing harpy eagle feathers line the upper periphery. Additionally, several hollow gold tubes are attached to the lower peripheries to mimic paws while those on the middle and upper areas perhaps mimic locks of hair. Such a luxurious piece, comprised of high quality gold and displaying the utmost artistry and workmanship, was likely created for a person of import such as a shaman, ruler, or warrior. Size: 6.125" W x 7" H (15.6 cm x 17.8 cm); 8.75" H (22.2 cm) on included custom stand.
In addition to its impressive form, the iconography of this piece carries layers of symbolism. In the Pre-Columbian world, the eagle was thought to be an intimidating bird of prey admired for its immense agility and power. Harpy Eagle traits were incorporated into several supernatural entities, most well known being the Bird Monster (god III of the Olmec) defined by Joralemon (1976). The jaguar was a symbol of power and kingship throughout the Pre-Columbian world, signifying a fierceness as well as an individuality that the ancients identified with leaders in their society. Undoubtedly, the person for whom this piece was intended was a well-respected individual.
This item will require 3rd party shipping. Please inquire about shipping cost prior to bidding.
Provenance: private Hawaii collection, acquired 2000 to 2010; ex-Ian Arundel collection, Old Curiosity Shop, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired 1960 to 1970
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 and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.<b>Unless bidder has previously purchased from Artemis Gallery, the only accepted forms of payment for this lot are personal check, money order or bank wire transfer. </b>
#179817Condition
Has not been removed from display stand for proper weight measurement. Slight bending, indentations, and deformations in scattered areas, with light earthen deposits, tearing to some peripheral areas and attached elements, minor creasing, and some cleanable tarnish, otherwise in excellent condition. Great luster and patina throughout.
- Shipping Info
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All shipping is handled in-house for your convenience. Your invoice from Artemis Gallery will include shipping calculation instructions. If in doubt, please inquire BEFORE bidding for estimated shipping costs for individual items.
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