Two Andean Silver Tupu Pins, Heart Shaped & Fish Charm (Auction 2026-06-05, Lot 248)

$385.50

South America, Peru / Bolivia, ca. early 20th century CE. A group of two silver tupu pins composed of mixed silver alloys and brass elements. One features a deer standing within a crescent form suggestive of a reed boat. It is set with a faceted red glass stone. A large articulated fish pendant hangs below, attached by a chain, and a small black glass Egyptian revival scarab is mounted along the linkage. The deer element tests at approximately 76% silver, while the fish measures approximately 59% silver. The second tupu takes the form of a large Colonial-style heart, framed with repousse decoration and flanked by birds at the crest, centered by a faceted purple glass stone. This example is made from higher purity silver, ranging from approximately 85% to 87%. Size of heart tupu: 7″ L x 2.5″ W (17.8 cm x 6.4 cm); silver quality: 59% to 87%; total combined weights: 88.8 grams

Provenance: private collection of S. Saunders, Nogales Arizona, USA collection

Condition: Patina and dark toning. Missing some element on the chain attached to the fish. Otherwise both are in great used vintage / antique conditions.