Pre-Columbian, Peru, Lambayeque / Sican culture, ca. 800-1000 CE. The Sican people made significant technical advances in metalwork and focused their artistic proclivities in this medium. Archaeologists have uncovered great numbers of goblets, dishes, masks, and ornaments - so many that they believe the Sican developed an organized industry in metalwork. Most of their works are cast or repousse gold or silver pieces, and the Sican were also adept at working with bronze. This representation of a lord or nobleman is comprised of five components - headdress, face, belt, and a pair of sandals. It was likely intended to be attached to a wooden figure that has disappeared with the ages. These surviving hammered silver embellishments indicate that the ensemble was intended to represent a person of high status. Indeed the kingdom of Sican was characterized by hierarchical power structures of royal palaces and capital cities not found in many other ancient societies of South America. The sandals are most unusual. Characteristic of the Sican sensibility, these dangling shoes enlivened the imagery with playful movement. Custom, museum-quality stand included. ~10-1/4"T with stand.

Provenance: Ex-private Florida collection, acquired from Espinoza Estate, Toronto; imported to US between 1972 and 1973.

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A few minor tears, else intact and excellent