Lot 213a, Auction 3/19/2026: Andean & Mesoamerican Shell Beads, Pottery & Copper

$520.00

In stock

Pre-Columbian / Early Post Conquest, Peru & Mexico, ca. 300 BCE to 1500 CE. A varied group of traditional Andean and Mesoamerican pieces in wood, pottery, shell, copper, and later post-Spanish Conquest metal alloys. This mixed collection includes loose ancient shell disc and seed beads in beige, black, and purple-orange spondylus material, along with two natural spondylus shells (thorny oyster) with intact spines that illustrate the source of the bead material prized by ancient cultures. The lot also features ancient wood weaving spindles, a small pottery pendant figure, pottery vessels including a West Mexican tripodal pot and bowl, a Pre-Columbian copper bell, several later metal pieces such as a bronze ring, and a modern brass tumi knife inspired by traditional Andean ceremonial blades. Size of large bowl: 4″ Diameter x 2.25″ H (10.2 cm x 5.7 cm)

Condition: Small chips to pottery. Shell beads and spondylus shells show natural wear and minor losses, while metal items exhibit oxidation and patina.

Provenance: private Lake Worth, Florida, USA collection, acquired via descent in April 1997; ex-private American collection in Cyprus, acquired between 1957 to 1969, brought to USA in 1969

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 purchases.

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