Pre-Columbian, North Coast Peru, ca. 100 CE - 500 CE. A large and hefty copper tumi depicting a lord or deity of the harvest standing on a platform. Dressed in elaborate regalia with a grand headdress, large earspools, necklace, and fanciful belt, he holds a branch-staff in his right hand and some fruits or nuts in his left. His body is part human and part flora; note how he is "sprouting" pointy plant shoots. At his feet are keros and other ceremonial vessels as well as more verdant flora. Perched upon his back is an example of an indigenous or perhaps mythical lizard-like fauna. Unbelievable detail and rich symbolism of the Moche, a people who subscribed to animism and believed in the supernatural spirits of nature. 8-1/4"L

Provenance: Ex-Koella Collection, Switzerland

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Normal oxidation. Else intact and excellent condition.