Pre-Columbian, South Coast Peru, Paracas, ca. 500 BCE. Among the earliest gold masks from the ancients of Peru, depicting a trophy head and skillfully hammered in repousse from gold sheet (51% gold, ~12K). Notice the vertical pins closing the mouth and the sinuous, tears streaming from the corners of his eyes. A very fine example with perforations at corners for attachment. Mummified trophy heads date to the pre-ceramic period in ancient Peru. Perhaps the most extensive practice of headhunting occurred along the south coast of Peru in the Nazca and Inca valleys where the early Paracas and succeeding Nazca cultures resided. Head-taking was a significant component of their warfare and religious mythology. A warrior could increase his might and status by capturing prisoners for head-taking. Size: 4.25" W x 3.875" H (10.8 cm x 9.8 cm); 5" H (12.7 cm) on included custom stand.
According to scholar Paul A. Clifford, the fact that the lips of trophy heads are pinned shut " . . . implies that head-taking might mean the acquisition of a slain enemy's power or the prevention of his soul or spirit from harming the killer. Pinning lips shut on the trophy head could inhibit the loss of the soul or power embodied within the head." (cf. Art of the Andes: Pre-Columbian Sculptured and Painted Ceramics from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections, The Arthur M. Sackler Foundation: Washington D.C., 1983, p. 251.)
Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-private Arundel collection, "Old Curiosity Cabinet", Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, California, USA
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#139282
Condition
Perforations at corners for attachment. Slight denting commensurate with age, but overall excellent with a nice glowing, warm patina.