Pre-Columbian, Peru, Chimu culture, ca. 14th to 15th century CE. This is an amazing silver bowl and rattle - the craftsmanship, material, and creativity of the artisan to combine instrument and vessel is truly exceptional! The bowl is composed of 2 of high quality 67.89% to 85.16% silver sheets, the outer sheet molded then impressed and repousse decorated with fish, and the second sheet was molded over the rim into a hemispherical shape, forming the interior. The artisan left a space between these layers and filled this hollow area with small pebbles or pottery shards that rattle around inside. This exquisite bowl would have been a ceremonial or funerary piece for libations or offerings - the fish symbolizes life giving water and creation. Size: 6.25" L x 2.25" H (15.9 cm x 5.7 cm); 7.5" H (19 cm) on included custom stand; silver quality: 65.8% to 82.6%; quality: 185.8 grams

Silver was associated with the moon, nighttime, and the watery underworld that was analogous to the depths of the ocean. The main Chimu deity was Pacasmayo, the moon god, and it must be noted that the moon was held in higher regard than the sun! The Chimu was a maritime culture- fishing was a major livelihood and driving force of their economy. Perhaps their observation of tidal relationships with moon phases elevated Pacasmayo's importance. The fish along this bowl probably celebrated and symbolized the monumental force of both ocean and moon.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Provenance: ex-collection of Robert Sonin, ex-curator of the Brooklyn Museum, and famous Gold Expert 1960 – 2000.

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 winning bids.

We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#177428

Choice condition. Tiny tears to rim, otherwise intact with minor age expected surface wear. Silver has dark patina and toning. Interior rattle pebbles emit sounds.