Pre-Columbian

Large Tripod Rattle Vessel — Costa Rica 400 AD - 700 AD Very large Costa Rican tripod rattle vessel from the Central Highlands - Atlantic Watershed Zone, dating to Period IV-V. It has pierced tapered tripod legs, each containing numerous small rattle balls. The legs support a semi-hemispherical bowl with curving shoulder that is decorated with appliques and incised bands, topped by tall chimney-type neck and flared spout. Faint remains of white pigment on the legs and traces of black on body of the vessel. Condition is fair to good. Restored breaks to the legs as is common. A large section of the neck has been replaced along with other repairs and surface touch ups. Overall an impressive piece that displays dramatically. Rare for its large size. See page 62 of the "Art of Costa Rica from the Arthur M. Sackler Collections" for a similar example and additional information. Approx 13.5" tall x 7" across $600

Tumaco - La Tolita Figure — Colombia 300 BC - 300 AD An unusual Tumaco - La Tolita figure from Colombia, South America. Hollow construction; made from white, sand-tempered terracotta as is typical. It depicts an elder seated on a bench. The fact that the individual is shown seated on a bench is indicative of respected and/or elite status. The face shows wrinkles and therefore, age, symbolizing wisdom. The individual is also shown wearing an elaborate necklace, ear spools, and bands just below each knee. Condition is quite good, but has some repairs as is common. Both feet, one arm and one hand have been restored along with two holes and the back of the head. Displays well and is a rare type. Please refer to the "Restoration Services" area of this site to see before & after photos of the repairs to this artifact. Approx. 7" tall X 3.5" wide. $525

Chimu Pakay Stirrup Vessel — Peru 1100 Ad - 1400 AD Rare Chimu polychrome stirrup vessel in the form of a Pakay seed pod. The Pakay is an edible fruit native to Bolivia and Southern Peru. Nicely burnished redware surface with white and black painted details. Condition is very good. Spout has been restored along with minor paint touch ups, otherwise intact. The reverse side shows more paint loss. An attractive example and an unusual form. Please refer to the "Restoration Services" area of this site to see before & after photos of the repairs to this artifact. Approx. 7.75" tall X 6" wide. $450

Moche Standing Figure — Peru 400 AD - 700 AD Moche female pottery figure in red terracotta with cream details. Standing with hands held to the chest as is common. She wears a full-length dress with a broad decorative collar and adorned with ear ornaments and bracelets. Condition is fair. Assembled from numerous original pieces with restored breaks. An attractive piece. Being heavily restored it is well priced. Please refer to the "Restoration Services" area of this site to see before & after photos of the repairs to this artifact. Approx. 7" tall X 4" wide. $195

Vera Cruz Figure — Mexico 250 AD - 550 AD An exceptionally large Veracruz seated figure. Usually referred to as "coastwatcher" figures; this is by far the largest of its type I've ever seen. Constructed of tan (buff) terracotta. Seated with crossed legs and hands held to the knees as is typical. The head is large and angular. The figure wears a wide (plumed) ornament across the top of the head. There are areas of red pigment remaining which is an uncommon feature. Overall condition is fair to good. One arm and the legs have been restored as well as a break across the head, otherwise intact. Displays impressively and is rare for its very large size. Please refer to the "Restoration Services" area of this site to see before & after photos of the repairs to this artifact. Approx. 11" tall X 6" wide. $550

Moche Portrait Vessels — Peru 450 AD - 550 AD A very rare matched set of three Moche portrait vessels dating to Phase IV. All are nearly identical; polychrome painted and nicely detailed with expressive features. They are definitely from the same mold, likely all created by the same artisan and probably all found together in the same location. Overall in near excellent condition. Two are perfect. One has been assembled from several original pieces with restored breaks. All have minor paint loss and deposits consistent with age. Remarkably these have remained together and I will not break up the set. Not sold individually. Custom metal stand is included, as shown. An impressive display! Each vessel is approx 4.5" tall x 3" across. Total display size is approx. 7" tall X 10" wide. $900 for all three

Nicoya Portrait Vessel — Costa Rica 1200 AD - 1500 AD Very large Costa Rican, Gran Nicoya, "Jicote" style portrait head vessel. The head is nicely polychrome painted and sits on a wide footed base. Two decorative bands of glyph-like designs around the top and bottom as is common. Round eyes, small ears and large open mouth, baring teeth. In fair condition. Assembled from several original pieces with large areas of the head and the base being restored. Appears near choice and displays dramatically despite considerable repairs and over-painting. Being heavily restored it is well priced. Approx 11" tall x 8" across $600

Moche Figural Stirrup Vessel — Peru 450 AD - 550 AD An exceptional Moche stirrup vessel dating to Phase IV. Very unusual in that it depicts a person lying prone on their stomach. The head is tilted upward and hands to their chest. The lips and nose have been consumed by the flesh-eating bacteria "leishmenaisis," a disease that still prevails in some remote areas of Peru. The vessel is nicely painted and shows detailed body tattooing on the face, hands and legs. Also of interest, the feet have been amputated, a practice sometimes performed on individuals (prisoners and captives) as a form of punishment. This is an exceedingly unusual depiction and a rare form. In excellent condition. The stirrup handle has been repaired from several original pieces, otherwise perfect. Approx 9" tall x 9" long $1250

Cocle Bowl — Panama 600 AD - 800 AD An attractive Cocle footed bowl painted in the typical style. Thick-walled construction with a nicely formed bowl atop a gently flaring footed base. In good condition. A two inch section of the base has been restored along with a single stress crack, otherwise near choice. Ample dendrites and earthen deposits. Approx. 3.5" tall x 5.5" across $225

Mezcala Temple Model — Guerrero, Mexico 400 BC - 100 BC Terracotta Mezcala temple model. Coarse tan clay with traces of white pigment. Usually seen in stone, this terracotta example is quite rare. The column on the right has been restored, otherwise nice condition with a few minor inclusions due to impurities in the clay. Custom metal display stand included. Ex. Hank Johnson Just over 6.5" tall x 3.5" wide x 0.5" thick $500

Chancay Textile Group — Peru 1100 AD - 1450 AD A fine collection of Chancay textiles and weaving tools. One large (approx. 8" x 10") woven textile panel with an interlocking bird motif and fringe along the bottom. Two other smaller textile fragments with geometric and bird designs. All three textiles are woven in a variety of vibrant colors. All show wear and some fraying consistent with age. Also included is a six-inch long, bone weaver's wand topped by an incised human face. Lastly, there are two intact spindle whorls. One is over ten inches long and still retains its original thread. The other is over seven inches long. Both spindles have nicely decorated terracotta whorls. All are mounted and framed under glass in a black (high-quality) shadowbox display. The artifacts have been pinned to the backing for easy removal. Overall a great assortment of ancient textiles and weaving related artifacts. Ready to hang. Frame is approx 17" tall x 13" across $450

Moche Bottle — Peru 400 AD - 700 AD Large Moche bottle-form vessel depicting stacked bowls of harvested produce. The lower portion of the vessel shows a bowl containing large round objects, likely potatoes. Above that is another bowl that is beautifully painted with geometric designs. The upper bowl appears to be holding chili-peppers. Atop the peppers is a tall, wide and slightly flared spout. Condition is very good. Assembled from several large original pieces with restored breaks. Some minor paint loss, mostly on the spout. A rare type that displays impressively and appears choice. Approx 9" tall x 5.5" across $950

Narino Ceremonial Clyster — Colombia 850 AD - 1500 AD Exceedingly rare Narino pottery clyster (enema tube) from the Capuli cultural complex of the Southern Highland Narino region. These ceramic tubular devices were used to administer potent hallucinogenic anal infusions of "Datura" as part of a ritual performed on adolescent males during coming-of-age ceremonies. This exceptional example is topped by three human forms, each with arms held to their chests. Nicely painted with bold geometric designs executed using the negative wax resist technique. Condition is original and near excellent. A single clean break has been glued and there are areas of paint loss, otherwise intact and with no restoration or paint enhancements. This is a very unusual artifact, seldom seen outside of select museums. Custom metal display stand is included. Approx 12" tall x 5" across $1750

Large Colima Vessel — West Mexico 300 BC - 300 AD Nice, large redware Colima olla-form vessel from Western Mexico. Elegant shape with rounded body and flared rim. Deep reddish-orange color on the upper portion and buff terracotta on the bottom. Ample root marks and manganese deposits along with areas of heavy mineralization and minor fire-clouding. Condition is near excellent. A small (1 inch by 3 inch) section of the rim has been restored, otherwise intact and choice. A fine example that displays well. Custom metal tripod display stand is included. Approx 8" across x 8" tall $475

Maya Cylinder Vessel — Guatemala, El Salvador 200 AD - 800 AD Tall, slender Maya plain ware cylinder with two incised lines around the top, but otherwise undecorated. Once possibly covered in stucco, which eroded away with time and exposure to moisture, or simply a utilitarian vessel made for everyday use. Being unpainted it is difficult to attribute, but most likely from Southern Guatemala or El Salvador. Reddish orange terracotta with some fire clouding and deposits. Assembled from original pieces with unrestored breaks. In fair condition, but an inexpensive example with nice form. Approx 4" across x 9" tall $275

Vera Cruz Spoon — Mexico 600 AD - 900 AD Large Vera Cruz pottery spoon or ladle. Undecorated buff terracotta with heavy deposits, root marks and light staining. Overall in good condition. The handle was broken in two places. The breaks have been restored, along with the tip of the handle and two areas of the spoon's rim. General surface wear and some edge erosion as would be expected. A rare example of an ancient utilitarian item. Custom display stand is included. Approx. 12" long x 4.5" wide $300

Inca (Inka) Ring Vessel — Peru 1300 AD - 1500 AD A rare Inca terracotta ring vessel from Peru. Nicely burnished blackware surface with light deposits. Footed base with carved geometric designs. The body is "donut" shaped topped by a human head and a tapered spout. A double conjoined handle on the back. Condition is generally quite good. The handle and spout have been reattached with restored breaks. The base is assembled from several pieces with a small portion being restored. Overall a fine and very unusual example. Ex. Andrea Sarmiento collection - Miami, Florida Approx. 8.5" tall x 5" across $575

Chimu Polychrome Vessel — Peru 1100 AD - 1450 AD An exceptional Chimu polychrome vessel from Peru. Rounded body with low footed base and wide strap handle. Has nicely detailed face with a headdress that serves as the spout. Beautifully painted with bold geometric designs in shades of red, cream and black. Condition is very good. Base and handle are reattached with minor losses restored. A single stress crack running vertically down the side has also been restored. Overall a nice and rarely seen painted example of Chimu pottery. Ex. Andrea Sarmiento collection - Miami, Florida Approx. 8.5" tall x 6" across $550

Mexican Artifact Group — West and Central Mexico Group of seven artifacts from Western and Central Mexico. Photo #1 Left - Nayarit painted seated figure. 200 BC - 350 AD Minor restoration to head. 5" tall - SOLD Right - Jalisco standing figure. 200 BC - 300 AD Glued from 5 original pieces, no restoration. Just under 5" tall - SOLD Photo #2 Left - Vera Cruz whistle figure. 600 AD - 900 AD Nose and whistle restored. General surface wear. 4" tall Center - Teotihuacan "Fire God" (Huehueteotl) head fragment. 450 AD - 650 AD Nicely detailed with custom stand. Head 2.5" with 5" tall stand Right - Vera Cruz bedded figure. 300 AD - 700 AD Minor restoration to ear spool. Flat on bottom. 3.5" long Photo #3 Left - Nayarit (or Jalisco) incised bowl. 200 BC - 350 AD Areas of rim reattached with restored breaks. 4.5" across x 2" tall Right - Colima miniature incensario. 200 BC - 200 AD Tripod legs, upper bowl in a bird motif. Restoration to one leg and rim. 3.5" tall - SOLD $175 each or $150 each for any two or more pieces.

Large Cocle Filtro — Panama 600 AD - 800 AD Unusually large Cocle dual-spouted vessel. The main body is vegiform; rounded and carved with vertical incising, likely representing a squash. The neck is wide and beautifully painted in a scroll pattern. The vessel's design is often referred to as a "Filtro". It is thought that vessels of this type were used in water worship rituals. This dual-spout design appears to incorporate dimorphic symbolism with the long, tapered "male" spout being intentionally connected to the wider "female" spout. Condition is near excellent with general surface wear and minor paint loss consistent with age. A few small areas of fire-clouding. The handle-spout has been reattached and poorly repaired. The breaks could be properly restored at minimal additional cost. Overall a fine example. See Labbe's "Guardians of the Life Stream" for additional info. Approx. 8" tall x 7" across $950

Large Central American Rattle Bowl — Costa Rica 400 AD - 700 AD Costa Rican tripod vessel with large rattle legs. La Selva type - El Bosque Phase "A" from the Atlantic Watershed - Central Highlands Zone. Shallow bowl supported by three mammiform legs. Each leg has a stylized zoomorphic adorno, vent holes and numerous rattle balls inside. The surface is burnished red and buff terracotta. A stippled band decorates the interior. Overall in very good condition. One leg has minor repairs and all three legs have been reattached with restored break lines. Areas of light erosion and surface wear as would be expected. A rare type. Displays dramatically. Approx. 5" tall x 9" across $475

Nayarit Bowls — West Mexico 100 BC - 300 AD Two Nayarit redware olla-form bowls. Undecorated, but an unusual shape. Both are in near excellent condition. The larger has a chip near the bottom. Both have minor dings and small areas of surface erosion, but are completely intact and have no repairs or restoration. Nice manganese and mineral deposits. A rare type. Large bowl - Approx. 4" tall x 6" wide Small bowl - Approx. 2.5" tall x 3" wide $195 for the pair

Lambayeque "Naymlap" Vessels — Peru 700 AD - 1350 AD Two blackware Naymlap libation vessels from the North Coast of Peru. "Lord Naymlap" is the mythological founder of the pre-Chimu dynasty of the Sican-Lambayeque culture of Northern Peru. He is identified as having a human face with slanted eyes and tattoos. He is often surrounded by other figures representing his descendants - the "children of Naymlap". Incised lines and dots under his eyes are tears; symbolic of rain as he is the provider of (precious) water for his peoples and their crops. Both vessels sit atop footed bases and have wide strap handles, typical of the type. Each has a nicely burnished blackware surface and light deposits. Fine examples! Vessel #1 is larger than most. Naymlap is surrounded by four of his children, two are laying prone at either side. Condition is generally very good. Minor repair to the tip of the spout and the handle has two repaired breaks, otherwise choice. Approx. 9" tall x 6" across - $700 Vessel #2 - Smaller in size as is common. Here, Naymlap is show with three descendants, two in front and a prone figure across the handle. At his shoulders are a pair of mythical celestial serpents. Condition is quite good. Restoration to the upper portion of the spout and a small probe hole in the back. Approx. 7" tall x 4.5" across - $500 Priced individually or $1100 for the pair

Colima Ocarinas — Colima 300 BC - 300 AD Three zoomorphic ocarinas (whistles) from Colima, West Mexico. Each is in playable condition with nice clear tones. Ocarina #1 is in the form of a bird; most likely depicting a turkey-vulture. It stands on splayed feet and has incised wings. Nice details. Condition is very good with only small areas of restoration to the head and beak. Approx. 2.5" tall - $175 Ocarina #2 is in the form of a bird. Larger, but not as detailed as the first example. The whistle is located in the tail with finger holes on the sides that change the tone(s). In perfect condition. Approx. 2.75" tall - $175 Ocarina #3 is in the form of a small animal; likely depicting a dog, monkey or possibly a rabbit. Interestingly, the whistle in located in the head which is uncommon. Very cute and a rare type. In perfect condition. Approx. 2" tall - $200 Priced individually or $500 for all three

Bahia Figural Bottles — Ecuador 100 AD - 500 AD Two rare Bahia blackware vessels from the Coastal Manabi Province of Ecuador. Both are similar in style with bulbous bodies, low footed bases, thin necks and sculpted relief faces. Vessel #1 - Elegant form with an incised sunburst design around the upper shoulder. Condition is good. Several restored breaks around the neck and a few restored stress cracks on the lower body, but all original. Appears choice. Approx. 8.5" tall. $650 Vessel #2 - Tapered and stepped body with a large head. The face is offset from the head and is nicely detailed with pierced ears and nose. Condition is good. Repaired breaks around the neck and head, with minor losses replaced on the head. One ear has been replaced as well. Approx. 9" tall. $750 $1250 for the pair

Bahia Vessel —Ecuador 100 AD - 500 AD Unusual Bahia vessel from the Coastal Manabi Province of Ecuador. Two opposing relief figures wearing necklaces, arms across their chests and typical style nose rings. The two heads are spouts connected by an arched strap handle. The vessel sits atop pointed tripod legs. Condition is generally very good. All three tripod legs have been restored and a hairline crack in the handle has been stabilized. Orange pigment remains on the figures. The surface shows some fire-clouding and earthen deposits. A few minor chips and dings, but overall in nice condition. A rare form. Ex. Bonham's Approx 4.5" across x 7" tall $450

Narino Bowl — Colombia 1000 AD - 1500 AD Narino vessel from the Middle Cauca region of Colombia, South America. The bowl has tapered sides and a footed base. Polychrome painted in black and red against a cream background executed in the ancient negative wax resist technique. The unusual painted design appears to be stylized human or animal faces along with a lightning-bolt design. The underside shows a simple striped pattern, mostly obscured by heavy deposits. Condition is generally good. Assembled from three large pieces with a small area of restoration and light paint enhancements. Approx 6.5" across x 3" tall See Labbe's "Colombia Before Columbus" for comparable examples and additional information on the type. $400

Xipe Totec Whistle Figure — Mexico 600 AD - 800 AD Fine Vera Cruz whistle figure of Xipe Totec, the Flayed God. Xipe Totec was among the most important of the Mesoamerican deities. Being the god of springtime his worship was crucial to the success of planting and crops, and consequently to the survival of those who depended upon it. As a result, increasingly elaborate and gruesome ceremonies were carried out in his honor. Annually, individuals (likely slaves) were selected as sacrifices to Xipe Totec. These victims were carefully flayed to produce the skin which was then worn by the priests during the fertility rituals that followed the sacrifice. To mimic the action of the corn bursting from its husk in springtime, priests of Xipe Totec wore the flayed skins during important ceremonies to appease the god in hopes for a lush harvest. Xipe Totec, "our lord the flayed one", originated during the Teotihuacan culture and continued in importance into Aztec times. In Aztec mythology, Xipe Totec was the life-death-rebirth deity, god of spring, agriculture, and the seasons. He supposedly flayed himself to give food to humanity, symbolic of the maize seed losing its outer layer before germination. He represented the fertility cult and was said to assist the earth in making her new (reborn) each spring. This piece shows one such Xipe Priest wearing a drooping skin mask, excess skin is shown in twists by his neck. He sits enclosed within a "corral" which represents a finely carved wooden litter, upon which he would be carried and paraded through the streets as part of the spring celebration. He wears a decorative headdress and necklace. The Xipe Priest and the litter sit atop an elaborate whistle mechanism (ocarina). Two large spheres are joined in the back by a dual mouthpiece, creating an interesting double whistle. Covering the holes in the front changes the sound(s). The combination of the two whistles emits an eerie, haunting sound, unlike anything I've ever heard. A third whistle on the back of the head gives a more high-pitched tone. Condition is generally excellent. There is a single repaired neck break and minor repair to the whistle behind the head. Also, a portion of the headdress has been restored, else intact and near choice. An exceedingly rare and culturally significant artifact. Seldom seen in today's market. For more in depth information on Xipe Totec and other Mesoamerican deities, see "The Flayed God" by Roberta & Peter Markman. Approx 4" across x 7" tall $3000

Nayarit Singing Figure — West Mexico 300 BC - 200 AD Nayarit female seated figure of the "Ixtlan del Rio" type. She sits holding a bowl to one shoulder, wearing a typical style hat, earrings and a large nose ornament. Her coffee-bean style eyes are wide set. The oddly shaped mouth is thought to represent an individual who is singing. Another interpretation is that the mouth shows scarification from performing a mourning ritual during which a rod is passed through the cheeks. Overall surface color is orange with cream paint remaining on the ear ornaments, skirt, hat and bowl with dots around the neck to indicate a necklace. Condition is generally good. Intact, save the head which has restored breaks along with paint touch ups. The top of the head, around the vent hole has been replaced. A rare form with nice deposits. Just under 6.5" tall x 5" across $325

Casas Grandes Bowl — Northern Mexico 1200 AD - 1350 AD Polychrome Casas Grandes olla from Chihuahua, Mexico. Squat rounded body and slightly flared rim with a small strap handle on one side. Nicely painted in red and black on a buff terracotta ground. The designs are typical of the period. Two bands of interlocking wave patterns which are thought to represent stylized birds along with zig-zag linear decorations at the neck, lower shoulder and on the handle. Overall in very good condition. Partial restoration to the rim and handle with light paint touch ups, but generally a fine example. Ex. Dave Waterman collection, ex. Hank Johnson Approx 5" across x 4" tall $250

Maya Bowl — Guatemala 200 AD - 600 AD Shallow orange-creamware bowl from the Southern Lowlands of Guatemala. Thin-walled construction. Decorated with nodes, one on each side, the nodes are connected by gently curving raised horizontal lines along with recessed diagonal lines. Condition is generally fair to good. Assembled from three large original pieces with restored breaks. Areas of spalling (surface pitting), mainly on the underside do not detract. Overall an attractive example of the type and somewhat rare. Nice deposits. Approx 6" across x 3 tall $275

Nayarit Female Figure — West Mexico 300 BC - 200 AD Seated Nayarit female figure of the "Ixtlan del Rio" type. She sits with legs crossed and wears a typical style hat, multiple earrings, necklaces, arm bands and a large nose ornament. In her lap she holds a vessel. Appears to be an artisan at work, constructing a pottery bowl, or perhaps she is preparing food. Once polychrome painted, much of the original painted surface is now obscured by heavy manganese, earthen and mineral deposits. Condition is generally very good, near choice. Intact save restoration to one arm. A fine example of the type. Just under 8" tall x 5" across $385

Chimu Marine Vessel — Peru 1100 AD - 1400 AD Footed blackware Chimu stirrup vessel with a marine motif. Round bodied and relief carved with rows of interlocking sting rays along with several cute animal adornos. At the base of the stirrup handle are two finely sculpted birds. At the base of the spout sits a nicely detailed monkey. Condition is generally good. Restored handle, spout and adornos. Appears choice and displays well. Ex museum piece with inventory number under the base. Note: See Inge Schjellerup's "Chimu Pottery" page 24, plate 51 for a similar, although uncarved and less refined example. Approx. 10" tall x 6" across $400

Inca Necklace — Peru 1100 AD - 1500 AD Lovely strand of Inca beads. Comprised of carved stone, shell and coral beads with a terracotta spindle whorl pendant. Nice variety of shapes and colors. Modern barrel clasp. Ready to wear. Approx. 16" total length $200

Lambayeque Lobster Vessel — Peru 700 AD - 1150 AD Attractive Lambayeque double-spout vessel in buff terracotta. Round body with a nicely detailed lobster on top. Flared footed base, tapered spouts connected by a arched handle. The handle is divided into four panels each decorated with finely carved geomectric patterns. Two styilzed faces adorn each side just below the spouts. Reddish brown rings are painted around the base, body and spouts. Overall in fair to good condition. Assembled from several original pieces with restored breaks and paint touch ups, but appears choice. An elegant form. Pretty! Approx 7" across x 7" tall $500

Nayarit Seated Figure — West Mexico 200 BC - 300 AD Nice seated figure from Nayarit, West Mexico. Typical redware surface with heavy deposits. The figure wears a hat with flaps covering the ears. The coffee-bean style eyes are wide set. Multiple nose rings and arm bands. A curved object goes from the mouth to a bowl resting in his lap. Overall condition is near excellent. Completely intact save one small area of restoration to the hat, otherwise choice. An interesting piece and an unusual form. There are several interpretations of what this figure represents. One is that the figure is drinking through a straw an alcohlic beverage called pulque made from the agave plant. The pulque drinker interpretation is an old one and was accepted for some time. However, there does not appear to be any evidence that straws or tubes were used to consume this beverage. Another theory is that of a bloodletting ritual. There is a similar, but larger example of this type at the Mint Museum in Charlotte, NC. Of that piece, Dr. Francis Robicsek says it represents a bloodletting ritual. The figure is pulling a cord through his tongue or cheek. The bloody cord is then collected into a bowl as part of the ritual. Another explanation is that of a musician playing a resonating instrument constructed from a gourd and a flute. Many ancient flutes were played by blowing across the mouthpiece, not into it, which would explain the frequently seen tube positioning at the chin. Yet another interpretation is that of Ethnologist Peter Furst who suggests that the figure is a shaman "charging" a medicinal potion by blowing into the bowl and its contents. Note: See pages 268 & 269 of "Von Kuste zu Kuste" by Ted J.J. Leyenaar for similar examples and additional info. Approx. 5" tall x 3.5" across $450

Collection of Tupu's — Peru 200 AD - 1400 AD A trio of Tupu's (shawl pins) from Peru. Cultural origins differ but all are Inca or earlier and are in good to excellent condition. One is gold or "tumbaga", a mixture gold, copper and other metals. It has a broad head and a hole through the middle. Gold (tumbaga) tupu's are very rare. Heavy oxidation could possibly be cleaned to reveal more of the gold surface. The next is silver, topped by a simple disk. Quite eroded especially near the tip, but intact. Last is a copper example, heavily cast with what appears to be a fish tail on the top. A fine and varied selection of ancient metal work. A little more research could more precisely pinpoint their individual dates and origins. Ranging from 4.5" to 6.5" long $350 for all three

Moche "Ai Apaec" Vessel — Peru 300 AD - 700 AD Moche bottle-form vessel showing finely carved Ai Apaec battle scenes. Thin-walled, round-bodied vessel with footed base and flared spout. The relief carved scene shows the struggle of Ai Apaec as the Sun Deity, a serpent is around his waist. On one hand an Underworld creature, repesented here in reptilian form, seeks to keep Ai Apaec in the darkness. While the other character (in this case a warrior or shaman wearing a solar headdress) tries to pull him up into the light. Two zoomorphic pierced handles on either side are shown as crouching underworld creatures. The important symbolism and culturally significant iconography depicted here provides rarely seen insight into ancient Moche mythology. Condition is generally very good. Restoration to the spout and base; one handle has been replaced. A similar scene on the opposite side is slightly eroded, but overall an exceptional example. Ex. Hoffman Galleries, Norfolk, Va. Many years ago, Hoffman Galleries was a respected dealer of fine antiques and antiquities. Please refer to the "Restoration Services", "Breaks" page of this site to see before & after photos of the repairs. Approx. 5.25" tall x 4.5" across $575

Teotihuacan Bowl — Mexico 200 AD - 700 AD Large tripod vessel from Teotihuacan; central Mexico's ancient "City of the Gods". A wide and deep bowl shaped vessel with pointy tripod legs. Beautiful, bright orange surface with no additional decoration, similar to other orange-ware vessels commonly found at Teotihuacan. This example is larger than most, has thin walled construction and in great condition. A single restored stress crack along with two small rim chips, otherwise nearly perfect. Some surface erosion, mainly on the bottom and shows nice deposits. A wonderful example, simple and elegant in form. Rarely seen in this size. Approx. 3" tall x 8.5" across $250

Chimu Fruit Vendor — Peru 1100 AD - 1400 AD An unusual terracotta blackware Chimu vessel depicting a fruit vendor. Angular vessel with a wide strap handle on the back. On top is a seated figure holding an incised rectangular box containing three small spheres, representing fruit. Overall in excellent condition with no damage or repairs. Very minor surface wear and light deposits, but generally choice and an uncommon motif. A fine example with nice detail and a very rare type. Museum deaccession. Approx. 8.5" tall x 6" across $475

Costa Rican Ring-based Vessel — Costa Rica 800 AD - 1200 AD A very rare Costa Rican, Nicoya Zone ring-based pedestal bowl dating to the late Phase V period into early Phase VI. Beautifully painted with intricate geometric designs executed in black on an orange ground. The bowl sits atop three support legs integrated onto a corseted ring base. An unusual example in near choice condition. A small area of restoration to the bottom of the bowl with minor paint touch-ups. A few tiny dings here and there with moderate deposits, otherwise intact. Nicely burnished surface. Note: See pages 96 & 97 of Paul Clifford's "Art of Costa Rica" from the Arthur M. Sackler Collection for similar examples and additional information. Also see page 223 from the Mortan D. May and Saint Louis Museum Collections for another example of this type. Approx. 3.5" tall x 6.5" across $250

Small Nayarit Vessel — West Mexico 200 BC - 100 AD Small Nayarit painted vessel from Western Mexico. Nicely painted in light orange-cream with deep red stripes in a geometric pattern. Rounded bottom and gently curved upper shoulder with a short flared spout. This vessel is extremely thin-walled, the likes of which is seldom seen in West Mexican pottery. Experienced collectors will appreciate the superior quality of the eggshell thin construction. In near excellent condition. One small probe-hole is restored, otherwise choice. Light mineral deposits. A great example and it being ultra thin makes it very rare indeed. Approx. 4" across x 3" tall. $165

Costa Rican "La Selva" Tripod — Costa Rica 400 AD - 700 AD Beautiful Period IV La Selva tripod vessel from the Atlantic Watershed region of Costa Rica. Three gently curving hollow legs, each containing rattles. Atop each leg are zoomorphic figures. The bowl is elongated with a corseted neck decorated and a row of incised circles. Very elegant in form and proportion. In generally good to very good condition. A few repairs as is common. Two of the legs have been reattached with restored breaks. Other minor repairs. Some surface erosion, mainly on the lower legs, but overall a nice and attractive example. Note: See Paul Clifford's "Art of Costa Rica" from the Arthur M. Sackler Collection pages 224-227 for similar examples of the type and additional information. Approx. 7.5" tall x 5.5" across $550

Teotihuacan Figure — Valley of Mexico 450 AD - 650 AD Molded terracotta Teotihuncan solid slab "flat" figure from the late Tlamimilolpa-Xolaplan period. Nicely detailed and ornate example showing a female figure wearing oversized earspools and with a child help to her chest. In fair condition with areas missing from the lower half. Broken and reglued at the neck. Some fire-clouding present, mostly on the back. Still a nice piece, despite the losses. Larger than most of this type. A rare example. See Berrin & Pastory's "Teotihuacan - Art from the City of the Gods" for addition info on the type. Approx. 6.25" tall x 3.5" across $600

Costa Rican Tripod Vessel — Costa Rica 400 AD - 700 AD Costa Rican tripod rattle vessel dating to the late Phase IV period into early Phase V. These are sometimes referred to as "spider-leg vessels" or "chocolate pots". Round-bodied vessel supported by three hollow legs. Each leg contains three rattle-balls. Atop each leg are well sculpted and finely detailed monkey figures whimsically leaning to one side. A nice example in good condition. Several repaired breaks as is common. Two of the three legs have repairs with the rattles of one leg replaced. A few rim chips have also been restored. Some minor chips remain. Appears near choice and displays beautifully. Note: See Paul Clifford's "Art of Costa Rica" from the Arthur M. Sackler Collection for similar examples and additional information. Approx. 6" tall x 5.5" across $325

Large Chimu Blackware Vessel — Peru 1100 AD - 1400 AD Chimu bottle-form vessel from northern Peru dating to the Early Intermediate period. Round vessel with a short flared spout. Two prone figures lay facing the spout and four curled dogs executed in low relief decorate the upper portion of the vessel. Nicely burninshed blackware sufrace with light deposits. Overall in fair condition. Assembled from numerous original pieces with restored breaks. Larger than most and a rare type. Displays well. Please refer to the "Restoration Services" area of this site to see before & after photos of the repairs on this piece. Approx. 7.25" tall x 7" across $375

Moche Portrait Vessel — Peru 450 AD - 650 AD Moche bottle-form portrait vessel dating to late Phase IV into the Phase V period. Wearing a traditional headdress and tempeta tubular nose ornament. Finely sculpted facial feautres showing a stern expression. Painted in shades of red and tan, triangular shapes decorate the hat with two rows of dots at the spout. In good condition. Repaired from originl pieces with minor losses restored. Rare type. For an almost identical example see page 130 of "Moche Art & Archaeology in Ancient Peru" from the National Gallery, Washington. Also see page 19 of Donnan's "Moche Portraits" for a similar example of the type. Please refer to the "Restoration Services" area of this site to see before & after photos of the repairs on this piece. Approx. 7.5" tall x 5" across $975

Lambayeque Vessel — Peru 700 AD - 1250 AD An unusual orangeware Lambayeque vessel from Peru. Footed base, rounded body, topped by a tall flared spout. A thick handle on the back connected from the body to the spout. At the shoulder are two well-formed prone figures representing the children of "Naymlap", their faces turned upward. Highly burnished surface with moderate fire-clouding and nice deposits. Generally in good condition. Reassembled from approx. 10-12 pieces with two areas of restored loss. A small chip on the base also restored. Pretty piece with an elegant, graceful form. Ex. California private collection. Approx. 6.5" tall x 4" across $250

Moche "Deer" Vessel — Peru 200 AD - 450 AD A very nice Moche Phase III bichrome stirrup vessel. Two relief carved (not molded) animal figures on either side. The well-carved scenes show deer (six-point bucks) being hunted, spears are embedded in their backs. Relief carved hunting scenes are somewhat rare as most hunting motifs are found only on painted vessels. This example is executed in tan (buff) clay along with a lightly burnished orange surface. Overall in near excellent condition. A few tiny chips on the spout and base. Minor pitting, but almost choice with no repairs. Shows light to moderate deposits, mostly on the bottom. Ex. collection of Joseph Espinoza - Toronto, Canada. Just over 9" tall x 5" across $750

Colima Vessel — West Mexico 200 BC - 200 AD Beautiful terracotta Colima squash vessel. Burnished surface, deep red color with heavy manganese deposits, encrusted and shows considerable root marks. An elegant shape with narrow base widening to a round squat body in the form of a noded squash, rim is flared. Vessels from Colima and the surrounding areas are known for their depictions of fruits and vegetables as they were common food sources. Overall in fine condition, would be choice save one small restored rim chip. It could possibly be cleaned, but I prefer the nice aged patina. A lovely example. Rare and desirable. Approx. 6.5" across x 4.5" tall. $450

Rio Magdalena Urn — Colombia 800 AD - 1200 AD Large Tamalemeque urn from the Rio Magdalena region of Colombia. The top is a complete seated figure, arms and legs to the front, large square head with relief facial features. The lower portion is round-bottomed, decorated with relief designs of two bats and four perforated lugs near the rim. Overall in very good condition. Some repairs and restoration as would be expected. On the figural top, one leg is reglued along with a few stablized cracks on the back of the head. On the bottom, one bat head, 2 lugs and two rim chips are reglued, some fire-clouding on the back. There are also two small cracks near the rim. Otherwise it is stable and in remarkable condition for its size. The custom metal stand is included. Displays impressively. Ex. Harmer Rooke Galleries. Note: I prefer not to ship this very large item. Pick-up only. Urn with lid is 33" tall. With the stand, almost 45" tall $2900

Jalisco Figural Vessel — West Mexico 400 BC Very early Jalisco effigy vessel dating to the Middle Formative Period. Depicts a standing figure with impressed details. A large vessel integrated into the back with a third support leg. The figure carries a basin (bowl) on his head, possibly used to burn incense. Light colored terracotta construction with no paint visible. A rare item from the period when shaft tombs were first developed. Overall in fine condition with restoration to the bowl and minor chipping at the rim of the rear vessel. See Hasso Von Winning's "Shaft Tomb Figures" for similar examples and info. Approx. 7" tall $325

Aztec(?) Pipe — Central Mexico 1200 AD - 1400 AD Buff terracotta pipe in the form of a turtle, its neck extended. From the post-classic period of Central Mexico. Most likey Aztec or Mixtec, possibly Huastec. This is a rare item, seldom seen and therefore difficult to attribute. Realistically sculpted with nice details. Finely incised patterns along the neck, shell, legs and tail. Overall in good condition. The head has been restored as are portions of 3 legs and the tail. Also, the rim of the bowl has been repaired. There is one glued clean break at the base of the neck that is hardly noticable. There is also a small nick on the neck, probably an excavation ding. Displays well. Please refer to the "Restoration Services" area of this site to see before & after photos of the repairs on this piece. Just over 4.5" long $275

Mixtec Painted Bowl — Mexico 1200 AD - 1500 AD Beautiful Mixtec shallow bowl from the post-classic period. Exterior is very nicely painted in bright white on red ground. Circles, lines and dots create a repeating serpent pattern around a central stylized avian image. Overall design is a representation of Quetzalcoatl (the feathered serpent), one of Mesoamerica's most important deities. The interior is a soft orange-tan with a white and red stripe at the rim. Repaired from 6 original pieces with a couple chips and the breaks restored. A few minor dings and scraps remain. An unusually fine example and a rare form. Nice manganese deposits. Ex. Robert Sudmann Collection, Washington State Please refer to the "Restoration Services" area of this site to see before & after photos of the repairs on this piece. Approx 6.25" across x 1.75" tall $425

Cajamarca Bowl — Peru 800 AD - 1000 AD Nice, thin-walled Cajamarca Bowl, rounded body with low, footed base. Although from a Cajamarca site, this piece shows strong Recuay influence. Interior has three orange on tan painted panels with highly adorned stylized human faces. Exterior has repeating panels of orange and black painted in negative resist style, now mostly faded. Repaired from 4 large pieces, breaks are restored. Nice deposits. Approx. 6" wide X 3.5" tall $375

Maya Bowl — El Salvador 550 AD - 900 AD Large Maya Swimmer bowl from El Salvador. Exterior has a lower band of two prone figures thought to represent the Hero Twins "Hunahpu" and "Xbalanque" on their journey through Xibalba, the Maya Underworld. An upper band of nicely detailed Copador glyphs around the rim. The interior has a band of repeating glyphs and concentric circles. Painted in red, orange and black over cream. Overall in good condition, minor color fading and has a few reglued shards with restored cracks, but all original. Burnished surface inside and out with deposits and root marks. Approx. 8" wide X 3" tall $525

Narino Bowl — Colombia 1250 AD - 1500 AD A fine Narino footed pedestal bowl from the Tuza cultural complex of the Colombian Highlands region. Nicely burnished and decorated with stylized bird heads on the interior. Boldly painted in black and red over cream slip. Exterior is buff clay with nice deposits. Broken and cleanly reglued from several original pieces with only minor restoration over the breaks. Approx. 7" wide X 3" tall $350

Maya Zoomorphic Vessel — El Salvador 100 BC - 400 AD Early Maya terracotta vessel in animal form with its tail forming the spout. Some orange paint remaining with faint geometric designs visible. Has what appears to be a name handwritten on the side "Nyapa Suchinango" (possibly a site location?). A few restored chips around the rim and minor wear to the tip of the spout, else in fine condition. 5" tall $375

Chimu Bird Vessel — Peru 800 AD - 1200 AD Chimu blackware terracotta vessel in the form of a Parrot. Nicely detailed head and body, short spout with wide handle connected to the bird's back. Thin hairline crack between the head and the spout and a stabilized stress crack on the bottom. Other minor repairs. 6.5" tall x 7" across $400

Chimu Stirrup Vessel — Peru 600 AD - 1000 AD Fine Chimu blackware terracotta stirrup vessel. Rare form and unusual in that the stirrup handle is flattend on the sides, almost square. Tip of spout has few tiny chips missing, otherwise in excellent condition. Approx. 9" tall x 5" across $400

Maya Dog Deity — Quiche Region, Guatemala 550 AD - 700 AD Large head fragment depicting the Maya Dog deity. Highly detailed fragment, appears to have been broken from a much larger piece. Nice example in fine condition. Display stand included. Approx. 5" x 5" $225

Hunchback Figural Vessel — Costa Rica 400 AD - 800 AD Extremely nice hunchback figure/vessel from the Guanacaste-Nicoya Zone of Costa Rica. Burnished terracotta squatting male, executed in red and black zoned bichrome technique. Rare form. Exceptional artifact in excellent condition, no breaks or chips. Only minor abrasions and paint loss. Approx. 7" tall $1950

Ocos Figural Vessel — Pacific Coast, Mexico 1500 BC - 1200 BC Exceptionally rare pre-Mayan vessel from the Ocos ceramic complex of Mexico's Pacific coast. Reddish paint on buff terracotta, coffeebean style eyes. Chipped nose and minor dings at the rim and base, otherwise excellent condition. Nice deposits. Truly a rare artifact from one of the earilest Mesoamerican cultures. Ex. Robert Morris Approx. 8" tall x 4.5" across $2450

Small Salinar Gold Nose Ring — Peru 400 BC - 200 BC Another fine gold nose ring. Thin crescent shaped hammered gold and in excellent condition. Ex. Hank Johnson Approx 1.25" x 1" $450

Ancient, Historic and Contemporary Native American Artifacts

Below are examples of pottery vessels from various Native American cultures. Of course, each item is guaranteed to be authentic and as described. Any known repairs or restoration will be fully described. All pre-historic and ancient artifacts were found on private deeded property and acquired legally according to all State, Federal and Indian laws.

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Mata Ortiz Pottery Vessel — Mexico Late 20th Century Very large Mata Ortiz black on black pottery vessel by well-known artist Reynalda Quesada de Lopez. Mata Ortiz is a large pottery center located in and around Casas Grandes and Chihuahua, Mexico. This exceptional piece depicts a coatimundi, a raccoon-like mammal native to that area of Northern Mexico. Nicely constructed and beautifully detailed with traditional geometric designs. This is not a new piece and likely dates to the late 20th Century. Condition is very good. The head has two restored breaks and one ear has been replaced; otherwise intact. Minor surface flaws consistent with age. Displays dramatically. Approx. 10" tall x 10" across $375

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Catawba Indian Bowl — Southeast United States Early 20th Century An exceptional Catawba Indian pottery tripod bowl dating to the first quarter of the 20th Century. A chief's head adorns either side. The rim is scalloped. The bowl sits atop three pointy legs. Typical tan clay with areas of black fire-clouding. Condition is near excellent. The tip of one leg has been restored, as has the tip of the nose on one chief's head; otherwise choice. A fine older example. Rare and very desirable among collectors. Approx. 4" tall x 9" across $450

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Apache Canteen — Southwestern United States 18th - 19th Century An early historic period Apache canteen. Constructed using a wooden or pottery substructure that is completely wrapped in layers of tanned hide (leather). Raised footed base, small spout and flattened body with four loops; two on each side that would have been fitted with a strap for carrying. Smaller than most of this type, but still a nice older example. In good condition overall. Some damage to the two upper loops and spout, but generally intact. A rare item that is seldom seen in today's market. Approx. 8" tall x 6" across x 3" in depth $225

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Mimbres Bowl — New Mexico 1000 AD - 1250 AD A lovely, medium sized Mimbres bowl with a repeating black on white geometric pattern around the interior. Condition is fair, broken and reassembled from several original pieces. The missing areas (approx. 35%) were replaced and the paint was touched-up as needed. Please refer to the "Restoration Services" area of this site to see before & after photos of the repair. Approx. 9" across x 4" tall $700

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Casas Grandes Bowl — Southern New Mexico - Northern Mexico 1200 AD Olla shaped vessel on rounded base with tapered walls and slightly rolled rim. Geometrically painted design in red and black over ochre ground. Two sets of two perforated holes at the rim for suspension. One large shard and a small chip reglued along clean breaks, else in excellent condition. Displays nicely. Ex. Arte Primitivo approx. 6" tall x 6" across $600

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Mounds Indian Bowl and Tool — Western Ohio 1000 AD - 1200 AD Large Mounds Indian bowl. Reassembled from several original pieces with deposits and incrustations. Overall very good comdition with only minor dings. Elegant form, displays nicely. Along with a bone implement found at the same site. Large (animal?) bone with a hole near the end, probably a tool used to straighten the shafts of arrows. Ex. Hank Johnson Bowl approx. 6.5" tall x 7" across Bone Tool approx. 5.5" long $475

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Mississippian Bowl — Cross County, Arkansas 500 AD - 900 AD Exceptional Middle Mississippian blackware "Fortune Noded" four-lobed shaman's rattle pot. Round bowl with four large noded lobes, each containing rattles. Very rare and beautiful. In fine condition. Areas of restoration at the rim. A few minor dings but overall appears choice. Ex. Rex Arrowsmith Approx. 3" tall x 6" across $1500

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Maricopa Pottery Bowl — Arizona Late 19th - Early 20th Century Large older Maricopa olla-form (seed) bowl dating to the turn of the 20th century. An early unsigned example. Red exterior with traditional designs painted in black, typical of the period. Condition is fair. Broken and glued together from approx. 12-15 pieces. Rim losses and minor body losses, but basically all there. Approx. 95% original. Some general light surface wear and paint loss. No fill or restoration present at this time. Could be restored for additional cost. Approx. 6.5" tall x 7" across $200

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Jemez Pottery Birds — New Mexico Late 20th Century Lovely pair of signed pottery birds from the Jemez Pueblo of New Mexico. Artistically crafted by Carolyn G. Loretto; one of the best known Jemez potters. The birds are white with beautifully painted traditional designs. Their form is the same, but the designs are quite different. These are quite rare as Carol seldom does animal forms. Her work consists mainly of bowls and other vessels. Carol's work has been published in American Indian Art Magazine (Spring,1990); Gregory Schaaf's "Southern Pueblo Pottery: 2000 Artist Biographies"; Hayes & Blom's "Southwestern Pottery: Anasazi to Zuni"; and Berger & Schiffer's book "Pueblo and Navajo Contemporary Pottery". Approx. 2.5" tall x 7" long $225

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Jemez Pottery Bowl — New Mexico Late 20th Century Small pottery bowl from the Jemez Pueblo of New Mexico. Beautifully crafted and signed by Carolyn G. Loretto; one of the best Jemez potters. No one does black on redware better than Caroyln. Her pots have excellent shape, the redware polish is deep and the graphics crisp and solid - beautiful depth and contrast. Carol has been an active Jemez potter since 1977. She was taught traditional pottery making by her mother Nanette Loretto. Her sister, Geraldine, is also an acomplished maker of quality ceramics. Approx. 2.5" tall x 3.5" across $100

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Shipibo Pottery

New Shipibo Pottery Page

The Shipibo items have been relocated. A new page dedicated to Shipibo pottery has been added to this website. To view these items, see the Shipibo Artifax page.

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