Ancient Peruvian Copper Tumi & Tupu Collection (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 72)

$385.50

A group of 6 copper objects spanning the Pre-Columbian and early Colonial eras, including two large tumi ceremonial axe heads, a circular disc pendant with a repousse face, a small tumi with a figural finial, and a Colonial-period copper-zinc spoon-form finial from a tupu. The Pre-Columbian pieces display rich green patina and test at 99% copper, while the Colonial tupu’s zinc alloy composition reflects the metalworking changes introduced after the Spanish conquest.

Provenance: Private Colorado collection, ex collection of Y. Kayvan, Los Angeles, California, USA, acquired from Barakat Gallery, Los Angeles, California, USA gallery acquisition dates range from the late 1980s to 2005

Condition: Very Good. Green patina and mineral encrustations. Colonial tupu finial is missing the pin stem. Old losses and chips throughout as shown.